Lindow, M. Weaving success: Voices of change in African higher education. IIE, New York, 2011. ISBN-13: 978-0-87206-342-6. Pages: 239.

In December, the International Institute of Education (IIE) presented this new book, which showcases the success stories of many higher education leaders, teachers, researchers and students in Africa. The publication particularly highlights the transformative processes that are presently occurring on campuses across the continent. It also provides examples of individuals finding ways to overcome steep obstacles at many African universities over the past decade. The lens through which the author examines the stories of individuals and the broader context is the Partnership for Higher Education in Africa, an initiative of seven major US foundations seeking to support the priority given to education in general and especially the contribution of higher education to social and economic development in Africa.

The book’s scope encompasses nine African countries whose universities received support from the Partnership for Higher Education in Africa: Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania and Uganda. The authors sets a general context for these countries, and at the same time explores each country’s unique characteristics and challenges in a wide range of areas and issues, ranging from innovative learning methodologies and research capabilities, to systemic impacts of reforms, academic freedom and gender equity, as well as networking and cross-border cooperation.

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