Enhancing Africa’s Renewal through Internationalisation of Higher Education: A Review of Management Strategies and Issues

Abstract

Internationalisation of higher education is a world-wide phenomenon and a contemporary process that aims to contribute to human, social, cultural and economic development of communities and nations. Seen in this light, international education is full of opportunities and potential benefits for individuals, higher education institutions and society at large. The past 25 years have seen the international dimension of higher education becoming more central on the agenda of international organisations and national governments, institutions of higher education, student organisations and accreditation agencies thus internationalisation has moved from being a reactive to a proactive strategic issue. The aim of this paper is to explore the role of international higher education as a vehicle for Africa’s current development trajectory. The article analyses the historical development of internationalisation, definitions, rationales and organisational strategies that can be employed by different nations to integrate internationalisation in the higher education systems of the African continent. The paper also examines benefits, challenges and risks of internationalisation to higher education in Africa. In conclusion, the author asserts that countries in Africa and the rest of the world should approach internationalisation in ways that are consistent with their current needs, priorities and circumstances.