| As place-based institutions, higher education institutions (HEIs) have the intellectual capacity and resources, both private and public, to transform communities facing human and social development issues. As such, HEIs must revisit their role/contribution and recognize their social responsibility to remain relevant in today's society. Indeed, social responsibility requires new community research and revitalization, job creation, teaching, and innovation. This study explores the role/contribution of Cameroonian HEIs in addressing human and social development issues through a qualitative case study of the University of Douala. More specifically, this study explored how the university advances development agendas through the use of interviews and a photovoice project, examining historical, social, and political events and practices that frame the role/contribution of HEIs in Cameroon. The findings suggest that HEIs are an important asset for the community and make significant educational, social, environmental, economic, and cultural contributions to the community. Specifically, the findings indicate the contribution of the University of Douala in the following areas: service, innovation, advocacy, leadership, and capacity building. Consequently, HEIs can help to advance human and social development. However, their contribution in these areas remains underutilized. Also, stakeholder engagement and lack of funding emerge as elements that downplay the contribution of the University of Douala in human and social development issues. Adaptive solutions for complex issues should consider the potential contribution of HEIs. This study concludes with recommendations and implications that aim to educate different stakeholders and practitioners on how HEIs can maximize their potential. |
