The International Education Association of South Africa (IEASA) recently hosted its 26th Annual Conference at the Radisson Hotel and Convention Centre, OR Tambo Airport, Johannesburg from 20 to 23 August 2024. The theme of the conference was centred around ‘Navigating Internationalisation in Challenging Times.’

The conference brought together internationalisation leaders, experts, academics and researchers, professional practitioners, educators, students and innovators, as well as organisations and individuals interested in higher education internationalisation, to share thoughts, research findings, lived experiences, and good practice examples.

The Office for International Affairs had the privilege of attending this prestigious event. Members of the OIA conducted various presentations that made an impact. Tafadzwa Ruzive, Thembani Hoho, Boitshoko Monnamorwe, and Atlehang Bokaba presented a paper, titled COIL Systems: Effectiveness and Efficiency in Ensuring Sustainable Engagements in Global South Institutions. The presentation was well received and facilitated meaningful discussions with participants from various international institutions. The exchange of ideas was enriching and provided valuable insights into global practices and perspectives. 

Seithati Ramonaheng's topic was Lived experiences of international students and staff in South African institutions of higher education: an ongoing conversation. Ramonaheng emphasised, “It's important to recognise that South Africa benefits financially from international staff and students through tuition, visa fees, medical assistance payments, talent transfer, housing, etc. Therefore, entities such as the Department of Home Affairs and SAPS need to implement effective processes to ensure a smooth transition to the Republic.” Chevon Slambee facilitated sessions and presented a paper, titled Navigating scarcity to create viable avenues for sustained internationalisation across contexts, co-presented by Refilwe Moleyane. The presentation was a collaborative effort by representatives from the UFS, CUT, Univen, UP, and NMU. Slambee explained, “The session aimed to explore the concept of internationalisation within the context of rapid global changes and the challenges posed by scarcity.” The discussion concluded with practical recommendations to overcome scarcity and advance sustainable internationalisation.

Dr Naledi Pandor, South Africa's former Minister of International Relations and Cooperation from 2019 to 2024, graced the IEASA audience with her presence, highlighting that "our troubled present demands institutional collaborations to deliver strong solutions to the current global challenges, particularly the pressing issues of peace and security".

Bulelwa Moikwatlhai, Assistant Director in the Office for International Affairs, described the conference as “a fantastic event that provided an opportunity to exchange knowledge and learn about internationalisation with peers, while acquiring best practices. It also allowed us to network with like-minded individuals who brought relevant experience”. Overall, the conference was a great opportunity for professional growth and networking.