PoliticsAugust 27, 2026
deprovincialisation
dee-pruh-vin-shuh-luh-ZAY-shun
Definition
The act of ending the dominance of local, narrow, or colonial-imposed Western viewpoints in academic and intellectual life to allow for broader, more globally or locally inclusive perspectives.
Etymology
Derived from the prefix 'de-' (reversal or removal) and 'provincial' (relating to a province or limited in outlook), it refers to overcoming a narrow, peripheral perspective to achieve a more central or universal standing.
In the news
The article uses this term to describe a necessary step for African universities, arguing they must move beyond Western-centric thinking to produce knowledge that truly addresses local needs.
Repositioning Heroes’ Day: A decolonial call for economic justice and equity
Read the full article ↗Windhoek Observer