1 Redefining Education and Development -- 2 Challenges and Opportunities Facing Higher Education in South Africa -- 3 Reflection on the Structural Development of Engineering Programmes in South African Higher Education Institutions -- 4 Development of an Academic Environment Model -- 5 Identification of Best Performing Students Using Machine Learning Algorithms -- 6 Challenges to eLearning and Teaching during COVID-19 in South Africa -- 7 Integration of Generative Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education -- 8 COVID-19's impact on Students’ Digital Identity and Academic Success at South African Higher Education Institutions -- 9 Attitudes and Perceptions of HEI Students Regarding Attendance and Performance for Practical-heavy IT Modules Post-COVID-19 -- 10 The Emergency of Chatbots and Student Learning Dilemma -- 11 Developing Character Strengths to Foster the Well-being of First-Year University Students -- 12 Bridging the Student Entrepreneurship Intentions and Venturing Gap -- 13 Education Issues Post COVID-19.

The book aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4, which focuses on quality education. It explores the evolving role of education as a critical driver for achieving all 17 SDGs by providing a platform for discussing innovative educational models and theories that foster sustainable development. The book takes an interdisciplinary approach, merging educational theory, developmental practice, and human psychology to address complex global challenges hindering sustainable development. The book includes case studies and empirical research, such as exploring student entrepreneurship in the agricultural sector and the factors bridging the gap between entrepreneurial intention and venture creation. These examples provide readers with practical applications of theoretical concepts and demonstrate the real-world impact of educational innovations, which is at the core of education delivery for all and how education touches on other areas of the SDGs. The book offers valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and development practitioners by presenting research and theory-based analyses. It suggests ways to improve the academic environment to foster entrepreneurship and innovation, which are key to economic development and job creation, especially in regions with high youth unemployment rates. The content suggests educational reforms that are responsive to the changing societal and economic landscapes. The book's blend of theory and practice targets a broad audience, including academic scholars, students, development agencies, non-governmental organisations, and policymakers. It seeks to engage these diverse readers in a conversation about the future of education and its role in achieving sustainable development. In summary, the book seeks to provide a comprehensive exploration of the nexus between education, development, and human needs in the context of the SDGs, offering innovative perspectives and practical solutions to equip readers to contribute to sustainable global development.