Abstract
Academic freedom, institutional autonomy and the University of Malawi: An analysis of some trends and prospects
Highlights
The history of higher education in Malawi has been steeped in modesty
This article focuses on an analysis of the trends and prospects pertaining to academic freedom and institutional autonomy in the University
Thereafter, the article takes stock of developments in the University since 1994 that have a bearing on both academic freedom and institutional autonomy
Summary
The history of higher education in Malawi has been steeped in modesty. Malawi attained its independence from Britain on 6 July 1964 and established its first public university in the same year. Thereafter, the article takes stock of developments in the University since 1994 that have a bearing on both academic freedom and institutional autonomy. The result is that, generally, the more undemocratic the regime, the more likely the suppression of academic freedom and the infringement of university autonomy.[20] In terms of the relationship between the State and a university, it is fair to state that this has been, and is likely to remain, contested terrain.[21] The State’s provision of financial support for universities has given many governments an impetus to control universities. For a university to play this role, it must enjoy a high degree of academic freedom and autonomy.[25] As reiterated by UNESCO, all countries must take necessary steps to ensure that higher education is directed at, among other things, human development and the general progress of society.[26] In the segment of the article, the two concepts at the centre of this discussion are unpacked. The result is that different interpretations have been attached to these terms in different societies.[28]
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