Towards an Ubuntu University

This thought-provoking book examines the concept of an ubuntu university, contrasting it with other educational models and highlighting its unique contributions to dignity and interdependence.

In Towards an Ubuntu University, the author invites readers to contemplate the concept of a university through the lens of the African philosophy of ubuntu, which emphasizes human dignity and interconnectedness. This exploration raises pertinent questions about the nature of universities today and whether an ubuntu university differs fundamentally from other models, such as entrepreneurial, thinking, or ecological universities. The text delves into the evolution of global higher education institutions, examining how they have shifted their focus to knowledge production aimed at various goals, including individual autonomy, public accountability, and economic interests.

The book provides a critical analysis of how these different university models reflect both epistemological and moral imperatives. By positioning the ubuntu university as a unique framework, the author argues that it can foster a deeper sense of dignity and humanity within the educational experience. This, in turn, enhances a university's ability to cultivate autonomy, responsibility, and critical thinking among its students and faculty. The discussion is situated within the broader context of higher education discourse, drawing on philosophy and comparative education to enrich the conversation.

Towards an Ubuntu University is designed for academics, educators, and students interested in the intersections of education, culture, and philosophy. It challenges conventional views of higher education and encourages a reimagining of how universities can contribute positively to society by embracing the principles of ubuntu.