Transformation of Higher Education in Cameroon through Decentralization Frameworks

Abstract

Faced with the problems and challenges of the centralized university system, the central government thought it wise to decentralize Higher Education in Cameroon. The present study looks at the various decentralization reforms put in place for the transformation of Higher Education in Cameroon and the practical measures that have been implemented to ensure this transformation. Decentralization which is widely used as an instrument of development is a process where centralized governments initiate reform agendas with the aim of transferring some powers, tasks and resources to regional governments and local authorities. Decentralization in education refers to the transfer of administrative and financial decision-making powers from central ministries of education to the regions. In recent years, the Cameroon government has become concerned about transforming the higher education landscape. This has been made possible by ensuring the decentralization of higher education institutions according to section 34(2) of 2023 higher education policy and ensuring the implementation of the e-higher education policy. A joint agreement was signed between the Government of Cameroon and The People’s Republic of China in 2015 known as “the Electronic Higher Education Project”. The implementation of this project has recorded the creation of public university institutions in all regions of the country, distribution of laptops to university students and the creation of ten (10) digital centers. However, we recommend that the various digital centers should be strengthened such that lecturers should have equitable access and inter-university relations be fostered. The Cameroon University system now has a technological environment favourable for digital transformation.