The Challenges to Fostering Higher Education Internationalization in Tanzanian Universities

This study examines the challenges that deter the implementation of higher education internationalization in Tanzanian universities. The study involved directors of internationalization, senior University leaders, international students, and academic staff. The study utilized a qualitative multiple case study involving six universities. Data was collected through face-to-face interviews, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), and documentary review. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze data. Based on interviews, FGD, and the reviewed documents, the study has revealed numerous challenges facing higher education internationalization, ranging from economic, political, and cultural milieus. The findings indicated that the shortage of funds, political and socio-cultural challenges hinder higher education internationalization. The highlighted challenges jeopardize higher education internationalization in developing countries that share social, economic, cultural, and political contexts characteristic of Tanzania. Furthermore, the study informs policymakers of the predicaments so that they make more efforts to enhance higher education internationalization in Tanzania.