Globalizing adult and higher education in Africa: qualitative evidence and future research agenda in Nigeria

A qualitative study explored the impact of globalization on adult and higher education in Africa, specifically focusing on Nigeria. It identified the roles of technological advancement, knowledge diffusion, and cross-border educational practices as key drivers. The research provides qualitative evidence and proposes a future research agenda for Nigeria to inform adult education policy.

Why it matters

Understanding the forces of globalization on adult and higher education is critical for developing relevant educational frameworks and policies. This research offers qualitative insights into these dynamics within an African context, specifically Nigeria, providing a foundation for strategic planning and informed decision-making in the education sector.

Key insights

• Globalization significantly influences adult and higher education globally.
• Key drivers of globalization in education include rapid technological advancement, knowledge diffusion, and expanding cross-border educational practices.
• The study gathered qualitative evidence on globalization's effects in African adult and higher education.
• A future research agenda for Nigeria was proposed, aiming to guide policy in adult education.
• The methodology involved a qualitative case study with 15 highly experienced participants in adult and higher education policy implementation, using semi-structured interviews.

Source

Frontiers in Education — https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/feduc.2026.1898122