European strategy for internationalization of higher education

Internationalisation of higher education (IoHE) is a relatively new phenomenon that has substantially broadened over the past couple of decades. Today, higher education operates within a global market: the skills and knowledge acquired in international education are the same skills that graduates will need to succeed in the global economy, increasing their experience and knowledge, employability, productivity and earning power.

High unemployment rates, skills shortage, aging population: now more than ever higher education is strongly influenced by the globalisation of our economies and societies. And a socially responsible higher education will be key to ensure not only that the right knowledge and competences needed for economic development are created, but also that a better governance, with more social cohesion and a strong civil society are promoted.

From a European perspective programmes like ERASMUS or Marie-Sklodowska Curie have paved the way to a broader and more strategic approach to internationalisation of higher education. However, if until recently the European and global emphasis has been on student and staff mobility, today HEIs need to invest more to increase their attractiveness. Strengthening cooperation, partnership and capacity building, increasing worldwide cooperation for innovation and development will be the main targets. International strategic partnerships between HEIs will be essential for cross-border innovation to address global challenges. This is particularly the case for developing economies where Europe is committed to build cooperation with centres of excellence to boost their modernization efforts.

The EU focus for the years to come will therefore be on creating the right conditions and providing the best instruments to concretely help HEIs develop strategies which will allow them to tackle global challenges more effectively.

The European strategy for the internationalization of a socially responsible higher education will be presented, with particular emphasis on the challenges that are currently being faced but also the opportunities that have emerged.

Author(s):

Brian Holmes    
EACEA