The university in a developing society

Abstract

In I his article the universality and in particular also the particularity of the university are dealt with. The author points out the indissoluble link between the university and the community, and also stresses that the university may not remain at a distance or be cold about the society in which it finds itself. Developing communities in Africa have held unrealistic expectations about what education (and the universities) would be able to do within their societies. These expectations, however, did not materialize. The university in a developing community, therefore, today has a jar greater task than its peer in any other community: the former is not only within the community, but is part of it. For that reason this university should also take the lead with regard to the solution of present problems in the community; it has an educational objective, has to povide guidance and has to counsel the community in time regarding problems that will still be encountered.