The University of the Witwatersrand hosted economist Jeffrey Sachs, who encouraged universities to take a stronger role in supporting socio economic progress. He said global changes in technology, economics and politics require universities to become more involved in solving real world problems.
Sachs explained that universities can help societies by producing research that supports better decision making and by training graduates who can address challenges in development, governance and technology. He also noted that African universities have an opportunity to lead in areas such as public policy, sustainability and innovation.
Wits University has been working on projects linked to urban development, public health, technology and social progress. The message delivered during the lecture supported the university’s aim to contribute more directly to improving national and regional conditions.
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