As the higher education landscape enters a profound transformation driven by technological disruption, intensifying global competition, and evolving socio-economic dynamics, the urgency for a coherent, resilient, and future-proof strategy has never been greater. In this context, the Higher Education Summit 2025 will serve as a catalytic platform to bring together all key stakeholders: government, academics, researchers, regulatory authorities, industry leaders, students, representatives of employees, civil society, and international partners for a comprehensive national dialogue.
Higher education is a cornerstone of national progress, serving as both an engine of economic growth and a catalyst for societal transformation. It empowers individuals with advanced knowledge, critical thinking, and specialised skills that drive innovation, fuel entrepreneurship, and enhance a nation’s global competitiveness. Below are the several committees that have been set up to carry out the necessary groundwork, collect relevant information, meet stakeholders, carry out the analysis to identify the strengths and weaknesses, and make recommendations.
Tasked with positioning Mauritius as a global leader in research and innovation, this Committee has worked on the development of a policy framework that enhances national R&D output, harmonises research policies, promotes impactful research, enhances academia-industry relationships, fosters cross-sector collaboration, and promotes research excellence in national research priority areas.
This Committee has worked on the development of an integrated national strategy to attract international students, facilitate academic mobility, and embed global standards within local institutions. It will address structural, logistical, and cultural challenges to promote Mauritius as a vibrant and globally connected knowledge destination.
Focused on expanding access and employability, this Committee has worked on the design of inclusive pathways between TVET and higher education, aligning curricula with labour market needs, and embedding industry collaboration into programme delivery.
The Committee is tasked with positioning Mauritius as a global education hub by attracting international students and promoting academic excellence. Its strategy includes a strong branding and marketing campaign, targeting key international markets, building global partnerships, engaging alumni, and ensuring a sustainable, culturally sensitive student experience.
Leading systemic academic reform, this Committee has worked on the development of national benchmarks for pedagogy, assessment, and educational environments. This will help to modernise teaching methods, improve student outcomes, and ensure consistent quality across public institutions while respecting institutional autonomy.
This Committee articulates a bold vision to position Mauritius as a science diplomacy leader in the region. It also recommends how to align national scientific priorities with global research agendas, strengthen STEM education, and build strategic bridges between academia, government, and the international community.
The SiM committee spearheads the development of a seamless, digital, and centralised student application portal, while leading the national campaign to elevate the country’s academic visibility. The project will enhance cross-border mobility, institutional collaboration, and access to high-quality tertiary education for both domestic and international students.