The effect of postmodern influences on the transformation of the local higher education situation was examined by means of a threefold approach. Firstly, the pertinent postmodern trends, as they are realized within the broad functioning of society, are identified. Secondly, these dominant trends are verified within the context of the local higher education situation which is subject to equitable redress. Lastly, possible guidelines are postulated for the effective management of the postmodern transformation of higher education.
With regard to postmodernism it was found that it manifests as a corrective extension of modernism insofar as it attempts to rectify the imbalances caused by the extreme rationalism of modernism. Due to the interaction between the various areas of society, this corrective extension role of postmodernism is executed in the broad society.
The local transformation of higher education with the aim of postmodern redress seems to be directed by two strategies, namely a redress of both the shape and the size of the system. This needs to be realized by means of a binary imperative, namely the development of the local society and the development of international competence.
Recommended guidelines for the effective management of the postmodern transformation of higher education is postulated by means of a categorical division of postmodernist demands. This division is deduced from the four areas of societal functioning.
