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PhD by Publication – Panacea or Paralysis?

Abstract The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) by publication is gaining impetus as a format of doctoral output both nationally and abroad. This format has become the norm in some countries and within some disciplines. As more African institutions are considering formalising this format through institutional policy and practice, it becomes necessary to consider whether the format can act as the panacea to the ills of high doctoral dropout rates; low and slow doctoral throughput rates; and the academic isolation doctoral candidates may experience. This article, however, also asks the question whether a format could and should precede the function of the PhD, namely, that of developing responsible scholars. If institutional and supervisory imperatives are given precedence over students’ interests – thus if form does not follow function – the PhD by publication may mean academic paralysis for the doctoral candidate. It is against this background that a reflective, first-hand account of the PhD by publication is provided.