These reflections are the result of interviews with several individuals who have taught and studied at the university level in Africa. These observations are concerned with the profession of both student and professor in higher education in Africa. An analysis of higher education from both the student and professor perspective follows. It goes on to examine the historical origins of African universities, from colonial-era to present. The New Partnership for African Development (NEPAD) and the issues NEPAD seeks to redress to understand historical trends as well as contemporary challenges and opportunities for the university professor and student in Africa are explored.