Book excerpt: This book gives a riveting account of the higher education advancements made in five East African countries, each presenting unique characteristics. While some of the counties enjoyed relative calm throughout their years of growth and development, others have endured a turbulent past marked by civil war, coups and other forms of unrest, including one of the most atrocious genocide events ever recorded in the history of mankind. It is a known fact that the past defines the present and describes the future. The book specifically tracks the historical development of teacher education, technical and vocational education and training, and university education in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi. The extensive research and up-to-date accounts provide a rich overview of tertiary education in the five countries, with candid reviews of the past, the current situation and perspectives on the future. The book is a refreshing addition to the books of history and education, and a must-read for students, professionals, and policy makers in the field of higher education, as well as scholars of history.