A PhD in information systems for emerging economies: the Addis Ababa University model

Abstract

Information systems (IS) provides a critical skill set for all economies, yet many of the emerging economies find that when they send the best minds overseas for a PhD in IS, many of them do not return. As a result, many poor countries are unable to create the intellectual infrastructure that they need to improve internal efficiency and participate in the world outsourcing market. Addis Ababa University in Ethiopia has developed a PhD in IS based on the willingness of overseas IS faculty to conduct intensive PhD seminars on a yearly basis. Now in its third year, the program is a model that other countries or regions might consider emulating.

Keywords:

• education in IT for ICT development
• higher education
• sustainable development in developing and transition economies
• PhD program
• information systems
• Africa
• Ethiopia