ACU Conference of Executive Heads, 25 -27 April 2010, Cape Town, South Africa

Universities and the Millennium Development Goals

Sunday 25- Tuesday 27 April 2010

Cape Town, South Africa

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN

"Higher eduaction plays a crucial role in reaching the MDGs, and should be seen to be engaging with these important issues. This conference will achieve two things: focusing the minds of HE leadership on these common goals, and preparing the way for HE to advocate for more recognition and support in helping to achieve the MDGs. The fact that it is taking place in arguably one of the most beautiful regions in the world, is a further distinct attraction!"
Dr Theuns Eloff, Vice-Chancellor of North West University, South Africa and Chair of the Association's Council

The conference theme will examine the contribution of universities to the Millennium Development Goals.  Universities are not mentioned in any of the goals, although it is recognised that the goals cannot be achieved without the research, policy analysis and the teaching and outreach that universities provide.  The conference provides an opportunity to demonstrate this essential contribution and will allow universities to re-affirm their commitment to helping to create a sustainable and more equitable world for future generations. 

The Conference Programme is under development.  However, it is envisaged that the three days will run as follows:

Day 1 -  The Millennium Development Goals: progress and future priorities

Day 2 -  Institutional commitment by universities

Day 3 -  Universities and the MDGs in times of conflict and post-conflict reconstruction

Smaller breakout sessions will provide opportunities for more detailed discussion of university contributions to individual goals:

• Demography -  past and future population growth and the drivers of fertility including the role of education

•  Poverty - including the hidden role of universities in the development of new products, services and employment.   Hunger - including food supply and food security

• Primary education - including the development of open schools

• Gender equality - including both equality in higher education and the role of higher education in promoting and achieving equality

• Health - including child and maternal health, HIV/AIDS, safe drinking water, malaria and other infectious diseases.

• Environmental sustainability

• Trade and debt - including trade in higher education