Review of the 42 Pan African University Master’s and PhD Programmes
Funding
Algeria, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria
2021-2022
Higher Education I Research & Innovation I Employability & Job Creation
Evaluation & Monitoring I Quality Assurance I Strategy Development & Review I Curriculum Development &
Reform
Introduction
Paeradigms conducted a comprehensive review of the Pan African University’s (PAU) programme portfolio, a flagship initiative under the African Union (AU).
Objectives
Paeradigms was brought in to:
Evaluate PAU’s overarching programme strategy. Review PAU’s 42 master’s and PhD programmes across four institutes.
Assess the alignment of these offerings with the ambitions of PAU and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
Provide recommendations on existing programmes and identify areas for new programmes to strengthen PAU’s profile.
Background
Founded in 2010 , the Pan African University (PAU) has graduated students from 52 African Union Member States. By 2020, an external review of PAU programmes was mandated. In March 2021, GIZ commissioned Paeradigms for this evaluation.
Approach
Paeradigms’ methodology involved:
Scope definition: Focused on macro and meso levels of the Institute’s programme portfolio.
Core elements: Addressed mission, architecture, content/quality, stakeholder integration, and supporting structures.
Data collection: Reviewed nearly 1000 documents and conducted 80 interviews with various stakeholders including PAU staff, students, and employers.
Outcome
Paeradigms successfully delivered:
An extensive final report highlighting strengths, challenges, and recommendations.
Evidence-based feedback on each of the 42 programmes.
A presentation of the report to the the AUC-ESTI Commissioner.