Reimagining Transnational Education with Diane Morgan, Global University Systems Operating Partner
In a recent conversation with Diane Morgan, Operating Partner at Global University Systems, we discussed the rapidly evolving landscape of transnational education (TNE) and its growing importance in an era shaped by technology and AI-driven learning.
TNE Becomes Central to Modern Education
Transnational education – the delivery of educational programmes in a country different from where the awarding institution is based – has traditionally ‘sat at the edge of institutional strategy.’ Today, however, Diane attests that TNE is ‘reshaping the core’ of modern education systems.
She attributes this to several tectonic changes occurring right now: the influx of ‘lifelong learning, global labour shortages, and the demands of knowledge economies require models that connect students to opportunity wherever they are.’ Hence, TNE now enables access for students ‘for whom mobility is neither affordable nor practical.’
Beyond Access: The Next Era of TNE
Access alone, Diane emphasises, is no longer enough. The next era of TNE will be defined ‘not by recruitment, but by employment outcomes.’ The new accolades of institutional success will be measured by: career progression; earning potential; and learners’ ability to thrive in an exponentially evolving workforce.
Success in TNE will depend on creating value that extends far beyond the classroom and into real careers and real impact.
Leveraging Scale for Meaningful Impact
This is precisely where Global University Systems is already building momentum. With the breadth and diversity of our network, Global University Systems has ‘reached the point where scale is no longer the objective; meaningful collaboration is.’
Operating across multiple markets positions us to engage with diverse employer needs, labour market realities, and skills ecosystems. Diane notes TNE’s “structural advantage” lies in the ability to integrate: regional employer input; stackable and skills-aligned learning pathways; cross-border project work, and a network approach that connects local delivery with global relevance.
This is the model that Global University Systems is actively shaping and implementing across its institutions.
The Future of TNE
In this first instalment of our conversation, Diane paints a picture of TNE that shifts its definition from exporting a brand, to engineering opportunity at unprecedented scale. With its global presence, Global University Systems is uniquely positioned to put this vision into practice across its network of institutions.
More from Diane on education quality, digital transformation, and the next frontier of global partnerships will follow in the coming weeks. Stay tuned.
