In a significant push for the future of higher education in Africa, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Nigeria, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has championed the concept of “Glocalisation” for African universities.
He urged institutions not to limit their internationalisation efforts to the global south but to actively seek local partnerships that will drive the continent’s advancement.
Prof. Egbewole delivered this compelling message during his keynote address at the inaugural International Partners’ Week Celebration (iPart Week 2024) at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) in Ghana on November 1, 2024.
The event focused on the theme “Re-examining Our Historical Identity Within the Context of Internationalisation of Higher Education” and attracted international partners from Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
Emphasizing the need for a broader perspective on internationalisation, Prof. Egbewole stated, “Though institutions of higher learning should think globally, there should be an urge to act locally.” He introduced the term “Glocalisation,” advocating for a dual approach that combines global thinking with local action to foster continuous international engagement.
Prof. Egbewole also advised African universities to exercise caution when entering into Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to ensure mutually beneficial outcomes.
He recommended that African governments establish frameworks to simplify visa applications for researchers, thereby alleviating barriers to studying abroad. “Brain drain is not bad in itself because it has positive values for internationalisation,” he noted, highlighting the complexities of talent movement.
In addition to advocating for curriculum development and regional collaboration, he called for policy frameworks that support internationalisation across African nations.
Another key speaker, Prof. Goski Alabi, President of Laweh Open University, addressed the theme “Emerging Trends in Students and Staff Mobility.”
She pointed out that African universities have not been as intentional or strategic in their internationalisation efforts compared to their global counterparts. To tackle ongoing challenges in access, quality, and research capacity, she suggested measures to reposition internationalisation within African institutions.
Prof. Alabi outlined key trends in the field, including increased mobility, global curriculum development, intercultural competence, technological learning platforms, and the importance of language and communication skills.
In his opening remarks, Prof. Johnson Nyarko Boampong, Vice-Chancellor of UCC and Chairman of the event, emphasized the significance of the celebration as a testament to UCC’s commitment to fostering internationalisation.
He stated, “Your presence is not just a testament to our shared objectives, but also a crucial step towards strengthening our internationalisation agenda.”
The event was further enlivened by presentations from international students of UCC, who captivated attendees with a flag-hoisting performance and recitals that showcased their diverse cultural backgrounds.
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