There is a consensus that science and technology are crucial for development. Investing in the knowledge triangle - education, research and innovation - has proven to be important for a knwoledge based society. For developing regions this holds even more true. By taking cooperation between Dutch, Flemish and Southern African Universities as a case study, we will organize a workshop to discuss to what extent the (potential) role of African universities in relation to the knowledge triangle is sufficiently acknowledged and supported. We will explore how the aspect of innovation and service to society can be incorporated better in academic development programs, by investigating both policy strategies in the Low countries and South Africa, and specific examples of good practices.