Agricultural universities for the twenty-first century

Although widespread success was found in several areas, the report focuses on common threats to the development of many of these institutions. In general, these concerns are the result of rapid social, political, cultural, and technical changes worldwide. Unable to adapt to these changes, the universities are suffering from poorly defined goals, weak leadership, poor job prospects for graduates, weak linkages with other institutions, and underdeveloped curricula. The report calls for institutional restructuring involving a shift in focus from food production to integrated rural development. Factors to be considered include: the increased importance of environmental issues; new linkages among agriculture, industry, and the service sector; scientific and technological developments; and new theories of development that draw on disciplines far removed from those traditionally associated with agriculture. In developing strategic planning, the universities should encourage participation from all strata, provide continuing education for faculty, and monitor the impact of university programs. The universities also need to concentrate on building constituencies within their respective nations.