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Journal of Public Administration (JOPA)

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ISSN : 2
Can intellectuals be stranded assets of society?

Author: Lucky F.M. Mathebula

Affiliation: Thinc Foundation

Source: Journal of Public Administration, 2023-04-10 18:13:25

Accreditation: Department of Higher Education and Training(DHET)



Abstract: Can intellectuals be stranded assets of society?

Theologian John Henry Newman, in his The Idea of a University, defined the purpose of higher education in society as, among others, being to give "a person a clear conscious view of his opinions and judgements, a truth in developing them, an eloquence in expressing them and a force in urging them" (Newman, 1893). Does this mean a university manufactures intellectuals? Of course it does. However, the appropriate question is, for what purpose? Many would say, to lead successful careers? They are not off the mark. However, as Newman explains, there is more to education than simply this. Those who go through higher education should become improved person in terms of their value-addition to the evolution of society. However, do they? I am asking this question because often there are many who come through the higher education system but appear to be stranded intellectual assets of society. This makes me wonder: Can intellectuals