Knowledge Diplomacy and the Digital World: The Role of International Tertiary Education towards Equitable Access to Education
- June 22, 2019
- Posted by: RSIS
- Category: Education
International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) | Volume III, Issue VI, June 2019 | ISSN 2454–6186
Vincent Ado Tenebe (PhD)1, Amuche Christian Igomu (PhD)2*
1Taraba State University, Jalingo Taraba State, Nigeria
2Faculty of Education, Taraba State University, Jalingo Taraba State Nigeria
*Corresponding Author
Abstract:-The digital world every second continues to transform our tertiary education through technology and platforms. International tertiary education as a global knowledge producer and developer of high skills needs to change its role towards knowledge diplomacy. The very nature of Higher Education, how it is delivered and the role of universities in society and the economy is changing, and will continue to change significantly in the next decade. Universities are competing globally for students, academics and funding, and only those that stay relevant and leverage new digital capabilities will benefit in this digital age. Many universities are developing specific digital strategies in reaction to the massive shift towards using new technology, yet lack the vision, capability or commitment to implement them effectively. New technologies and platforms are revolutionizing the way that knowledge is produced, accessed and used globally. Solutions to many of the world’s greatest challenges are increasingly within reach. The speed and scale of change is also disrupting labour markets and business models, radically changing the nature of jobs and the skills required. While technologies are creating huge opportunities, International Tertiary Education (ITE) has a unique and indispensable role to play in preventing and countering polarization in the society. In a rapidly globalizing world, many are concerned about climate change, the economy and technological developments. Against this background, social polarization is challenging democracies and terrorism, and spreading violence and terror. Society at large (including the pillars and institutions of democracy) need to step up to these challenges.This paper explored the role of international tertiary education towards ensuring equitable access to education with examples of Higher Education practice geared towards contributing to addressing inequalities in access to HE in Nigeria.
I. INTRODUCTION
The process of knowledge diplomacy has improved the interdependence of institutions, information, and people globally by providing numerous benefits that will strengthen relations between countries as well as facilitate dialogue and exchange ideas among people from diverse culture, religious backgrounds and providing access to knowledge and opportunities through information communication technologies.