19 January 2020  Issue No: 581

As we enter a new decade, it is important to reflect on why universities’ role in sharing and explaining the latest research is so vital, particularly at a time when knowledge is advancing so rapidly and many are being left behind.

The Addis Ababa Convention has finally come into operation, providing a framework for the recognition of academic qualifications throughout Africa and mechanisms to limit brain drain from the continent.

Highlighting genuine concerns of students and parents about study in the United States is not anti-American. Pretending that gun violence, the broken visa system or the widespread feeling that the US is not open and welcoming don’t exist or trivialising them will not make them go away.

As African institutions seek to lead the research agenda on issues that affect the continent, they need sound research governance infrastructure and competent research managers. A fellowship programme is helping to improve the research management and administration skills of university leaders to enable their institutions to better compete and collaborate internationally, win international research funding and transfer knowledge and technology to their communities.

Poor research culture is leading to unhealthy competition, bullying and harassment, and mental health issues. Close to half of researchers have experienced bullying and more than half have sought or wanted to seek professional help for depression and anxiety, a survey of 4,000 researchers shows.