Academics and African academia : a paradox of manufacturers and industries for development

This paper reviews the catalytic role of African Universities in national and continental developments as well as enunciating the standards and qualities expected of the academics who work in such higher institutions of learning.Emphasis is placed on the significance of research and publication efforts among university lecturers as a process of improving their teaching as well as demonstrating their abilities to create and disseminate knowledge for the solution of societal problems.Since the hallmark of any University includes among other things, the attainment of high quality staff and the maintenance of academic excellence, some challenges have been posed to all stakeholders in the educational industry. This is done with the view to achieving quality assurance, equity, stability, relevance and high productivity in all respects of University life, particularly in the developing countries of Africa