Internationalization and Education-Related Mobility in Asia-Pacific Universities

Abstract Under the banner of “internationalization,” universities in the Asia-Pacific have introduced policies, programs, and projects to attract international students and scholars and further their research reputations. This chapter develops a portrait of international student mobilities, revealing the complex dynamic of forces—historical legacies, regulatory and commercial infrastructures, and community networks—that help position universities, cities, and countries as desirable knowledge destinations. A synopsis of achievements points to the success of Asia-Pacific universities in maintaining regional student and scholar flows, programs of development assistance, online teaching, and greater regional and international research cooperation. In this sense, the university plays an increasingly important role in knowledge diplomacy, strengthening relations between countries and regions through internationalization. The authors remain hopeful that the internationalization of universities will not only bring about technological and economic gains, but also usher in new possibilities of social inclusion, gender equality and environmental sustainability.