Having gained credibility among its member institutions, African governments, development partners and the higher education community globally, the AAU in its collective vision has put together a strategic plan to guide its activities.

The main Goals of the Strategic Plan 2003 - 2010 are to provide effective support for African higher education institutions in their core functions of teaching and learning, research and service to their communities. This will enhance the impact of the African higher education community and its institutions on national, regional and global affairs and policy. An additional goal is the provision of efficient management of the Association, with sound program implementation capacity and a secure resource base.

Programs and Services offered by the Association include: