The Role of Internationalisation in Shaping Higher Education Policies in Developing Countries: A Case Study of Sierra Leone

Abstract

Higher education is increasingly recognised as a vital driver of economic growth, social development, and global competitiveness. In an age of globalisation, the internationalisation of higher education has become a transformative force, influencing the policies, practices, and priorities of universities and governments worldwide. For developing countries, internationalisation offers both significant opportunities and complex challenges. On the one hand, it provides access to global knowledge networks, research collaborations, and funding opportunities, enabling institutions to enhance their quality of education and align with global best practices. On the other hand, it raises concerns about the potential erosion of local traditions, cultural homogenisation, and dependency on foreign models. This dynamic is especially pronounced in post-conflict nations such as Sierra Leone, where both internal needs and external pressures are shaping higher education policies.  This study examined the role of internationalisation in shaping higher education policies in Sierra Leone, a country that has undergone significant transformation since the end of its civil war in 2002. Internationalisation has played a key role in the reconstruction and expansion of Sierra Leone’s higher education system. Yet, its alignment with the country’s national development goals remains a matter of debate. This research explored the extent to which internationalisation influences the formulation and implementation of higher education policies in Sierra Leone and identified the benefits and challenges it presents for the local education system. By employing qualitative research methods, this study analyses key policy documents, institutional practices, and stakeholder perspectives to provide a nuanced understanding of how internationalisation impacts Sierra Leone's higher education landscape. The findings will contribute to broader discussions about the role of internationalisation in the educational systems of developing countries and offer insights into how global trends can be adapted to suit local contexts while fostering sustainable educational growth.