The Global Convention on Higher Education is officially in force as of 5 March 2023, following the 20th ratification on 5 December 2022. The world’s first worldwide treaty on higher education is now a reality, and it’s set to revolutionize the way we approach mobility and access in higher education.
But what exactly does this mean for students, educators, and higher education institutions around the world? The Convention is not just some lofty ideal, but a solid structure for strengthening student mobility and inter-university cooperation. It tackles distance learning and other forms of cross-border higher education, represent for regulators and quality assurance. The Convention is a game-changer that will help democratize access to higher education and favour cooperation over competition, diversity over uniformity and flexible learning pathways over traditionally structured ones.
And the best part? The entry into force of the Global Convention is just the beginning. By extending the principles of UNESCO’s five regional higher education conventions to interregional mobility, the Global Convention broadens international recognition and will benefit students looking for study opportunities outside their home region, leveling the playing field and increasing access to quality higher education. It also pays special attention to refugees who often lack documentation of their higher education qualifications.
Learn more about Global Convention on Higher Education.