Planning cannot be evaluated on documentary evidence alone. One of its most important outcomes is its fostering of debate on major issues. Divergence and conflict are a normal component of strategic planning. Universities are built upon the premise of free discussion and debate of ideas. It is therefore incumbent for the planners to take this into account when preparing the planning process.
Participatory planning has a positive impact.
Another contribution for the Working Group on Higher Education concerns the reform of higher education in Cameroon. This reform was initiated in 1993 as a response to severe overcrowding at the University of Yaounde, where enrollments increased from 9,000 in 1977 to 45,000 in 1991. Student welfare appeared to have surpassed teaching and research as the university's priority. As a result, the university community lost motivation and became demoralized. The goals of the 1993 reforms were the decongestion of the University of Yaounde and the professionalization of university studies.