Filleting the Transnational Education Steak

Abstract

Barring the devout vegetarian, most people will not refuse a sizzling steak, especially when the stomach is empty. Even in fairly well developed economies, an education deficit is there. Why should countries then be hesitant or skeptical about transnational education delivered to their doors? Could it be that there are just too many bones in this particular steak? If we can remove the bones and retain the flavour, the steak is filleted. How can we do this and what role can quality assurance play? The paper explores the issue from the perspective of a quality assurance agency, arguing that there is intrinsic value in transnational education and that there are ways to identify the possible pitfalls and overcome them. Quality assurance will provide a platform for mutual trust and mutual cooperation, inculcating confidence in the key decision makers at the same time. International cooperation and the International Network of Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education are indispensable parts of collective effort.

Keywords:

• Transnational education
• quality assurance
• international cooperation
• mutual agreements
• INQAAHE