Differentiation of Higher Education Institutions in Uganda and their Philosophies: Is it Diversion or Inclusion?
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Date
2021-09Author
Kaguhangire-Barifaijo, Maria
Sessanga, Karim
Bakibinga-Sajjabi, Florence
Oryema, Dan E.
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This article discusses university diversions from their original purposes in order to achieve economic
independence and sustainability. While these institutions are social systems that reconcile contradictory functions, they
have long relied on marketing and branding to attract quality students, funding, and partnerships, in order to endure
differentiation. Nonetheless, the majority of institutions have diverted from their original purpose, while others are
struggling to distinguish themselves as unique; still others are unable to define their purpose, identify their culture, and
also fail to align their inputs with their outcomes. In effect, those institutions that have attempted to uphold differentiation
have simply duplicated what already exists in other institutions, albeit with different visions and mission statements.
Nonetheless, while the lost differential was initially perceived as a disadvantage, it has proven to be a boon in terms of
inclusiveness. The article concludes that the skills’ gaps in the areas of science and technology, as well as the drive to
achieve social economic development through regional balance, resulted in the establishment of additional scienceoriented
public universities, but with inadequate funding, which necessitated the inclusion of more marketable programs
to supplement government funding. The article recommends that, the government should always conduct situational
analyses, assess needs, and devise financial mobilization strategies in order for Ugandan universities to maintain their
philosophies.