Innovating Higher Education - A Case Study of Challenger Universities in Africa

Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 seeks to provide accessible and affordable higher education by 2030. While traditional universities in Africa evolve slowly to meet this goal, challenger universities are emerging to disrupt higher education. Examining the innovation practices of two of these institutions, this case study identifies four key practices: financial innovation, the Hub and Spoke model, competency-based online education, and the application of emerging technologies. Drawing on innovation management and higher education theories, the study draws new insights into how challenger universities address Africa’s unique challenges.