j. To ensure academic freedom and institutional autonomy in all institutions of higher learning. k. To direct university and higher education towards the training and research needed to ensure Africa’s scientific and technological independence. States should encourage institutions of higher education to conduct their research and training in a socially responsible manner. l. To ensure that higher and tertiary institutions should have a role in economic, social and cultural development and the promotion and protection of freedom and dignity. Higher education institutions and universities should be enabled to contribute to social, economic, cultural, scientific and human development through the training of high-level specialists and the intensification of research and engagement with policymakers and the public. m. To ensure accessible and affordable higher educational, vocational training and adult education and adult literacy as fundamental aspects of the right to education. n. To ensure that adult education programmes are aimed at reducing inequalities within societies and enabling African peoples to better understand the problems of the modern world. These programmes should also take into consideration national priorities and realities. States should further ensure the establishment of institutions for the training of staff for adult education. The use of African national languages is highly recommended in adult education without necessarily abandoning the use of a foreign language. Adult education should be a continuing process o. To facilitate the free movement of persons essential for the exchange of ideas and economic integration. To give priority to cooperation in the exchange of professional manpower, especially in education and training, and to adopt measures to reduce brain drain and to encourage qualified Africans living abroad to return. Vulnerable Groups, Equality and Non-discrimination p. To ensure that all children, including those belonging to vulnerable and disadvantaged groups, enjoy equal access to and progress in the educational system, including addressing the social, economic and cultural barriers that impede girl children’s equal enjoyment of the right to education. Where necessary States should introduce special measures to ensure that vulnerable and disadvantaged children attend school. q. To ensure the safety of schoolchildren by taking effective measures to address physical and sexual abuse by other students, teachers, staff or principals; ensuring the safety of schoolchildren on their way to and from school; In adopting and implementing a prohibition on the use of corporal punishment, States should ensure that a child who is subjected to school 36