University autonomy in Australia is examined: why institutional independence is important, how it has eroded since the late 1960s, factors leading to the erosion, and possible university responses. Concern is expressed about the universities' ability to withstand further government encroachment. (MSE)

The problems facing universities because of external pressures for changes in their teaching, research, and governance and management policies and practices to align them with public policies are discussed. Examples of these external pressures are provided in the context of general system theory. (Author/MLW)

This article discusses the evolution of the new Australian comprehensive university. The equivalents of polytechnics or institutes of higher education will disappear. These institutions had, in 1988, a higher student enrollment than the universities. The intrusion of government into higher education institutions is likely to increase. (MLW)

Important changes resulting from a recent amendment to West Germany's 1976 Higher Education Law and the debate surrounding them are discussed. The issues include university democracy, governance, research, staff structure, curriculum, the problems of nonuniversity institutions, and the position of comprehensive universities. (MSE)

Some instructive experience about the potential and limits of a meaningful role for African universities in the 1980s is discussed. The challenge of the 1980s is to convince African governments and national populations that university contributions to national development lie in the ability to train minds and a thinking society. (Author/MLW)