The Status of Private Provision of Higher Education in Ethiopia

Abstract

The major objective of this paper was to assess the status of the private provision of higher education (PHEIs) in Ethiopia. More specifically, the study has attempted to: provide a historical overview of private provision, to examine the regulatory framework for private higher education, and to assess the opportunities and constraints for growth of private higher educational sector in Ethiopia suggesting policy choices and advices. Empirical materials for the study were drawn from two major sources: documentary information (e.g. policy documents, the 20 year Education Sector Development Plans—ESDP I-IV and some important directives from HERQA/Ministry of Education) as well as in-depth interviews conducted with seven key informants (five heads of pioneer private providers and two other providers). Among other things, the study revealed that the Ethiopian Government created a positive climate, at least initially, that allowed an unprecedented mushrooming of PHEIs; that the provision of PHEIs in Ethiopia suffers from considerable lack of predictability/certainty; and that there are practices indicative of double standards that affect the operation of the private sector. The need to have a clear roadmap about the contribution of the PHE institutes stood out as an overall recommendation to tackle constraints related to the provision of higher education in the country.