The Dialogue Series for Vice-Chancellors across SADC higher education institutions aims to foster collaboration, knowledge exchange and alignment on regional priorities. It addresses challenges, shares best practices and explores innovative strategies to enhance the quality and relevance of higher education across the region.

SADC faces two pressing challenges: rising youth unemployment and the growing impacts of climate change. But these also create opportunities – a green economy can open new pathways for youth if they have the right skills and support. This roundtable will explore how climate, youth empowerment, and economic transformation intersect, spotlighting innovative education models, research, and policies that create climate-responsive employment opportunities for the next generation.

This workshop explores the evolving landscape of research, emphasising impactful knowledge production, collaboration, participatory approaches and effective science communication. Participants will engage deeply with contemporary models and practical strategies designed to maximise the societal, environmental and academic value of research.

It is often maintained that QA is everyone's business; however, the reality is that the development of a quality culture in an HEI cannot be attained overnight. It cannot be imposed. Quality culture is context-bound and can only be encouraged and nurtured. At this webinar, participants will engage in discussion on quality culture, the associated challenges and strategies for influencing mindsets in the institution. A few participants from HEIs in the SADC will be invited to verbally share their experiences of promoting a quality culture.