This archive report was first published on 16 August 2019.
Prof Paul Tiyambe Zeleza, a renowned Malawian scholar, has spent over three decades in Kenya, leaving an indelible mark on the academic landscape. With a prolific career spanning 27 books, over 300 academic articles, and numerous essays, Zeleza's intellectual contributions have had a profound impact on various fields.
Published in 1994, his book 'A Modern Economic History of Africa' won the prestigious Noma Award for Publishing in Africa, a testament to his dedication to excellence.
Reflecting on his academic journey, Zeleza notes that the dynamics in higher education have undergone significant changes since his student days in 1972. With only 170 institutions in Africa at the time, admission to university was a rare privilege. In contrast, as of 2018, there were 1,682 universities, making it easier for students to access higher education.
However, Zeleza laments the decline in the quality of education due to inadequate resources and the high student-to-lecturer ratio. He recalls the better resources and healthier lecturer-to-student ratio of his time, which ensured deeper engagement and better quality of education.
During his academic tours around the world, Zeleza has learned the importance of staying committed to excellence and quality. He emphasizes the need for scholars to be passionate about their work and to avoid taking shortcuts.
Regarding the challenges facing local universities, Zeleza notes that they are not unique to Kenya and are often related to funding. He suggests that universities have introduced more courses to attract more learners, but this has lowered the quality of education.
On the new competency-based curriculum (CBC), Zeleza believes that it will impact higher education positively by testing students' mastery of specific topics through continuous assessment, rather than relying on exams that create anxiety.
As a vice chancellor, Zeleza engages with the university community regularly, using both formal and informal channels. He believes in servant leadership and values the opportunity to interact with students and staff in various settings.
When asked about students' concerns, Zeleza notes that he has well-established mechanisms for addressing different issues. He acknowledges that managing students from diverse age groups requires a different approach, but he finds it rewarding to absorb fresh energies from them.
Finally, Zeleza offers advice to young professionals, emphasizing the need to be resilient and adaptable in the face of changing economic circumstances. He suggests that investing at least 10,000 hours in a particular field is essential for true success.
