Sustainable development goals and capability-based higher education outcomes

Abstract

The paper explores the contributions of undergraduate university education to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)’ goals and development outcomes, proposing a normative capability-based approach oriented to human development. The approach is aligned with a developmental model of the university and development policy in sub-Saharan Africa and South Africa, where the study is located. It draws empirically from a four and a half year mixed-methods research project conducted with low-income, mostly rural students at five historically diverse universities in South Africa. The paper presents a justification for using the capability approach, and outlines the rationale and methodology for synthesising a specific capability set generated by theorising and empirical data. A set of corresponding functioning indicators offers an expansive approach to understanding ‘learning outcomes’ in contrast to dominant neoliberal approaches that seek quantification and efficiency, overlooking what cannot be easily measured. An indicative sketch of university arrangements required to advance and evaluate each functioning for development outcomes is then outlined.

Keywords:

• Learning outcomes
• capabilities
• functionings
• conversion factors
• South Africa

Acknowledgements

My thanks to the research team: Monica McLean, Mikateko Mathebula and Patience Mukwambo.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.

Additional information

Funding

ESRC-DfID grant number ES/NO10094/1 and National Research Foundation grant number 86540.

Notes on contributors

Melanie Walker

Melanie Walker holds a South African Research Chair in higher education and human development and is a Distinguished Professor at the University of the Free State in South Africa and a National Research Foundation A-rated scientist. She is President-Elect of the Human Development and Capability Association and a Fellow of the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAF).