The Continuing Need for Internationalization of Higher Education

International cooperation and exchange are essential conditions for tackling the huge challenges faced by humankind today, as expressed in the UN Agenda 2030 and the SDGs. Internationalization of higher education and research is a key component in this respect by building international, global and intercultural competences, mutual understanding and respect among new generations of leaders, professionals and citizens worldwide. The concept of internationalization, originally strongly linked to mobility of students and staff, has been broadened to include strategies for bringing international exposure to all students, and not just those who have the ability to travel. Internationalization at Home and virtual exchange are key elements in this respect. Internationalization is not seen as a goal in itself, but rather as a way to maximize positive societal impact of higher education in an increasingly interconnected world. In this sense, internationalization should be a continuous focus now and in years to come, to be supported by institutions, governments and international organizations such as UNESCO.

Read the policy statement “The Continuing Need for Internationalization of Higher Education” here.