Rationale

A Dialogue Series for VCs across SADC higher education institutions would aim to foster collaboration, knowledge exchange and alignment on regional priorities. It could address challenges, share best practices and explore innovative strategies to enhance the quality and relevance of higher education across the region. VCs across higher education institutions, especially in regions like SADC, often face a complex set of challenges that require balancing academic priorities with administrative, financial and political pressures.

Some questions to consider:

1. What are the complexities in the role of the university executive?
2. What are the critical success factors for the university?
3. What is the institution’s most pressing challenges and strategic goals?
4. How can funding and resource constraints be overcome?
5. What challenges do we foresee in adopting digital technologies (e.g. cost, skills, infrastructure)? Are there examples of successful or unsuccessful digital transformation initiatives within the institution?
6. How do VCs engage with external stakeholders (e.g. government, industry) to build support for these initiatives? How can we allow faculty, staff and students to play more active roles? Are there mechanisms to improve communication and advocacy?
7. How do VCs balance short-term needs with long-term strategic goals?
8. What collaborative opportunities exist within SARUA to address shared challenges across SADC institutions?
9. How can the Dialogue Series serve as a platform for sharing best practices and scaling successful initiatives?

Chair: Prof. René Pellissier (SARUA)