Internationalization of Higher Education in Post-Conflict Iraq

• In Event: Globalisation of Education From a Worldwide Perspective

Abstract

The U.S.-led invasion in 2003 has created opportunities for Iraq to reconnect with the international academic community, adopt some internationalization activities and establish American-style universities. Drawing on policy borrowing theoretical framework, this study examines how internationalization is rationalized, appropriated, or resisted, by various actors at global, national, sectoral, and institutional levels. Using a vertical case study research design with interviews as the primary method of data collection, the analysis shows that while internationalization activities such as twinning programs, imported universities, and curriculum were idealized by both external and local actors, the latter have brought their perspectives to it based on their interests. This was evident from the different rationales and interpretations of internationalization at the four levels of Iraqi higher education.

Author

• Hayfa Jafar, Centennial College