Models for our University's development, recognising its individual socio-economic setting

Abstract

We note some salient aspects of the society surrounding the University. There are some changes in this society that are almost inexorable. These changes are so important that, if the University wants to play a constructive part in them while promoting those of its present features that are desirable, it will have to plan for altering its character significantly. When we look elsewhere for existing university models which could guide us, we find little that is helpful. We propose instead a basic outlook: Wits wishes to participate in the future of S.A., rather than be dragged through it. This outlook allows us to formulate some aims for, and consider some constraints on, the University, in terms of which we develop some broad features for the future structure of curricula, professional degrees, research orientation and interaction with its community.