Developing professionalism from within and outside: Reflections of editors of the Journal of Student Affairs in Africa at 10 years

Abstract

The 10th anniversary of the Journal of Student Affairs in Africa (JSAA) is a good occasion to ask in what ways the editors of JSAA think they have contributed to achieving the journal’s aim to contribute to professionalizing student affairs in Africa. Using four reflective accounts of six editors of the journal, this article analyses the editors’ reflections on their professional pathways and the role the journal played in them; how they contribute to the professional development of their peers by means of their editorship; the challenges they encounter and lessons they have learned; and the visions they have for the future of the journal. By applying Evetts’ (2003) notions of professionalism, we identify different types of professionalism signified in the reflective accounts. We find that the agency of the editors combines standards, ethics, and operating procedures of publishing with principles and commitments indigenous to African student affairs. In this regard, the JSAA-led professionalization process combines both elements of professionalism ‘from within’ and ‘from outside’. We further highlight commitments of the editors to well-being (of students, staff, and communities), professional development and excellence, deliberate inclusivity and social justice, and a focus on relevance in the African student affairs context.