Curriculum Harmonization in Ethiopian Public Universities: Is it a Step towards Harmonizing Higher Education System?

Abstract

Abstract: The main argument of this paper emanates from understanding that harmonization of higher education is a systematic and collective effort of different internal and external stakeholders including public authorities, universities, employers, quality assurance agencies, international organizations, and institutions, including regional bodies like the African Union. This paper attempted to analyze the concept of harmonization in particular reference to higher education by looking at different regional experiences. This paper also examined the situation of Ethiopian harmonization of higher education which ought to be essentially a process that recognizes the significance of regional education cooperation and the importance of establishing higher education space in which activities and interactions in higher education, mobility, and employment opportunities can be easily facilitated and increased in the region. Finally, the paper finishes with some possible suggestions in the implementation of harmonization of the internal structure of the Ethiopian higher education as pre- condition for regional cooperation.