The Essay
The evolution of transnational education in the Caribbean
Transnational education brings international degrees to Caribbean students, reducing costs and opening doors, increasing access to higher ed.
By Shazim Husayn, Director International, International Office, Global Engagement Division, University of Bristol
Transnational Education (TNE) has emerged as a dynamic, transformative, and essential element in the landscape of global higher education, enabling aspiring Caribbean students to attain internationally recognised academic credentials without the necessity of studying abroad. This development significantly mitigates the financial burden associated with pursuing higher education in top-tier destinations like the UK or the USA, which have traditionally attracted Caribbean students. It also allows part-time and mature students that are on low incomes across the Caribbean to access higher education.
The origin of TNE in the Caribbean can be traced back to the 20th century, evolving significantly in response to globalisation. By the early 2000s, the Caribbean saw a 40 percent increase in TNE partnerships, with over 30 foreign universities establishing collaborative programs by 2010. This period marked a significant shift towards integrating Caribbean education systems with global standards, facilitating a broader exchange of knowledge, educational practices and pedagogical methodologies.
Initial TNE engagement often involved ad-hoc partnerships, with foreign universities leading programs such as the University of London International Programs. The evolution from distance education to the incorporation of physical campuses and franchised institutions exemplifies a shift towards a more collaborative model that resonates with the Caribbean’s educational ambitions and socio-economic aspirations.
Significant milestones include the establishment of the University of the West Indies (UWI) Open Campus, which represents a pioneering effort in blending local and international educational resources to serve the region’s diverse and rural student population. The period also saw enhanced efforts in recognising and regulating TNE, with entities like the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) playing a pivotal role in shaping policies for the quality and expansion of TNE initiatives.
"Currently, the Caribbean hosts upwards of 100 plus TNE programs, with a significant 60 percent increase in online course enrolments over the past five years."
Current landscape of TNE in the Caribbean
Currently, the Caribbean hosts upwards of 100 plus TNE programs, with a significant 60 percent increase in online course enrolments over the past five years. This surge is indicative of the region’s growing reliance on technology to bridge educational gaps. Fields such as environmental science and information technology are particularly prominent, reflecting the region's strategic focus on sectors vital for its socio-economic development.
Online platforms and Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) have made it easier for Caribbean students to access education from institutions around the world. Platforms like Coursera, Udacity, and edX offer courses from renowned universities that students in the Caribbean can enrol in plus several other US and UK universities. These online programs are sometimes offered is sometime in parallel with study centres so that students can access library facilities.
Benefits of TNE to the Caribbean
The introduction of TNE has led to significant educational and economic advancements in the Caribbean. A study by the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) in 2018 reported a 15 percent improvement in the academic performance of institutions involved in TNE programs. Economically, TNE has been linked to a 5 percent annual increase in the region's GDP, attributed to the enhanced workforce skills and job creation within the education sector. Moreover, cultural exchange programs have resulted in increased international collaboration, as evidenced by a 30 percent rise in joint research projects between Caribbean and foreign institutions.
Academically, TNE has contributed to expanding access to higher education, diversifying program offerings, and enhancing the quality and international relevance of education in the region. From an economic perspective, TNE programs have been linked to job creation, increased foreign direct investment in the education sector, and the development of a more skilled workforce aligned with global standards.
Culturally, TNE facilitates international exchange and collaboration, enriching the educational experience for Caribbean students and faculty. It promotes a global outlook and intercultural competencies, essential skills in today's interconnected world.
Challenges and criticisms
Despite its benefits, TNE faces quality assurance and recognition challenges. The Caribbean Accreditation Authority for Education in Medicine and other Health Professions (CAAM-HP) highlighted inconsistencies in the quality of foreign programs, with only 60 percent meeting regional accreditation standards. Furthermore, the potential overshadowing of local institutions and the sustainability of TNE initiatives remain contentious, with calls for policies that better integrate TNE into the Caribbean’s educational and economic frameworks.
Future of TNE in the Caribbean
The outlook for TNE in the Caribbean is optimistic, with a projected increase in programs focusing on sustainability and digital transformation. Policy reforms aimed at enhancing inclusivity and alignment with local needs are underway, promising a more integrated and responsive TNE ecosystem. Advances in digital learning technologies are expected to further democratise access to quality education, making TNE a cornerstone of the Caribbean’s educational strategy.
TNE has significantly reshaped the educational landscape of the Caribbean, offering both challenges and opportunities. With strategic policies and continuous investment in quality assurance, TNE can further contribute to the region’s academic excellence and socio-economic development. As the Caribbean navigates the complexities of global education, the continued evolution of TNE will play a crucial role in empowering its nations, preparing them to meet the demands of a dynamic global and complex economy.
One of the critical objectives that TNE has achieved in the Caribbean is that it has addressed the human capital drain by limiting the number of Caribbean students who migrate to UK and the US and do not return. TNE has allowed aspirational students the opportunity to study globally but contribute regionally to the development of the Caribbean.