Imbalanced Partnerships? Higher Education Policy and Relations in Ethiopia and Ghana

This study explores how national and institutional policy in Ethiopia and Ghana acknowledge partnerships with external actors and how the term reframes foreign aid. A qualitative analysis of key higher education policy documents reveals that at the national level, partnerships are not explicitly prioritized, although they are welcome for the sake of national development and legitimacy. Separately, higher education institutions encourage partnerships, as they present ample opportunity for building capacity and global recognition. Despite national differences, this study finds that the loose framing of national policy permits institutional dependency and
increased potential for exploitative relations. The lack of cohesion between institutions and national ministries is a clear inhibitor of intended self-reliance. Furthermore, international organizations play a fundamental role in higher education development; more work is needed to address the implications of their interactions and partnerships on the African continent.