Educational diplomacy: universities in the context of Latvia’s international aspirations

Zane Šime

Research output: Contribution to conferenceAbstractpeer-review

Abstract

One of the latest sources of dynamism in Latvia is higher education. Institutions across Latvia welcome increasing numbers of students from all over the world. Earlier elaborations on the role of higher education institutions focused on the economic benefits of such an influx of students and explored the quality dimensions of the curricula, students’ expectations and attractiveness of Riga as a study destination. The role of universities as supporters of Latvia’s diplomatic efforts and foreign policy goals remains understudied. The objective is to draw wider attention to the evolving literature on educational diplomacy. A broader debate directed towards planning specific actions would be even better. It should carve out the role of individual institutions and the higher education sector in enhancing the ties of foreign students to Latvia not only during their studies but also during later stages of their academic or professional career. The literature on the role of universities in the context of educational and science diplomacies, earlier participation in science diplomacy discussions and training events feed into the overall conclusions. Latvia’s capacity to attract increasing numbers of students from abroad should be considered as an opportunity to invest in the future extended network of ‘Latvia literati’. Such efforts in relationship-building should rest not only on the shoulders of the hosting higher education institutions. It should engage a broader scope of institutions in extra-curricular training and networking events offered to the foreign students. These events should help them explore how after the completion of studies in Latvia they might consider extending collaborative ties with the country. This is an invitation to look at Latvia’s international aspirations beyond the Latvian diplomatic and economic outposts and people-to-people contacts facilitated across the Latvian diaspora. A growing new type of community has distinct memories and intellectual familiarity with Latvia.
Original languageEnglish
Pages65
Publication statusPublished - 24 Mar 2021
Externally publishedYes
EventRSU Research week 2021: PLACES - Rīga, Latvia
Duration: 25 Mar 202125 Mar 2021
Conference number: 2
https://rw2021.rsu.lv/conferences/places
https://rw2021.rsu.lv/events/2nd-international-interdisciplinary-conference-places

Conference

ConferenceRSU Research week 2021: PLACES
Abbreviated titleRW2021
Country/TerritoryLatvia
CityRīga
Period25/03/2125/03/21
Internet address

Field of Science*

  • 5.6 Political science

Publication Type*

  • 3.4. Other publications in conference proceedings (including local)

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