Exploring possibilities for management education in Africa: The case of South Africa

Abstract

Literature indicates that the role of education in driving an economy and in social welfare is beyond any doubts. Across the world, in most of the countries, education is always in the priority of government budgets. Education is a resource in fighting with developmental issues and therefore International organizations like UNESCO, has included educational equity in its agenda for capacity building. Contemporary research highlights a growing need for responsible leadership, sustainable development and social entrepreneurship. Literature also indicates that these issues become more relevant in the context of Africa. South Africa faces some unique challenges which are associated with the country’s history. Economic development, equality, addressing skill shortages and unemployment are priorities of government. In such scenario, responsibilities of education institutions include ensuring quality, relevancy, affordability and accessibility of education with inculcating knowledge. Various readings on these issues and observations have contributed to the development of this paper. This paper is based on the review of related literature, on indications emerging from the review and on the experiences of authors. This paper attempts to explore the possibilities for management education to contribute to the development of a county. While exploring these possibilities, the uniqueness of the African context and changing multi-polar business environment is also considered.