Accra, May 20, GNA - The Association of African Universities (AAU) in collaboration with the Stellenbosch University in South Africa will organise a conference for Rectors, Vice Chancellors and Presidents of African Universities (COREVIP) from May 30 to June 3, 2011 in Stellenbosch, South Africa. The event is an assembly of the Chief Executive Officers of member institutions or their representatives. A statement from the Communications Directorate of the AAU in Accra on Friday said the meeting would provide "an excellent opportunity" for leaders of African Higher Education Institutions to exchange experiences and draw on the lessons from institutions on issues relating to the theme of the conference. The week-long programme is on the theme: "Strengthening the Space of Higher Education in Africa." The statement said the Association met every two years with the purpose of examining collective themes identified as common concerns and priorities for the development of higher education in member institutions. The statement said the conference would also be an opportunity to hear from both regional and international organisations involved in higher education initiatives.

More than 250 participants are expected to attend the conference comprising of executive heads of AAU member institutions, acclaimed African scholars, representatives of sub-regional, regional and international organisations, as well as donor and development agencies that partner with the AAU. Ministers of Higher Education and other policy makers will also to attend.