As the academic world turned its eyes towards Doha, Qatar, the anticipation built for the Seminar on Leadership Development for New Presidents and Emerging Leaders, set for November 30th to December 2nd, 2023. A notable highlight of this event was the contribution of President Samuel Martín-Barbero, scheduled on December 3rd in a panel titled "A Conversation on Putting Internationalization Front and Center."
In this discussion, President Martín-Barbero delved into the critical importance of internationalization in the realm of higher education. "In my view, internationalization is no longer optional but a mandatory and strategic framework needed to consolidate organizational excellence and academic relevance," he said. His perspective, shaping internationalization not merely as an optional strategy but as a mandatory framework, has been a significant contribution to the dialogue. He emphasized the need for an open-minded approach that embraces diversity without biases, highlighting how internationalization is not just about academic achievements in certain institutions or countries, but about broadening the educational mission to foster a more inclusive and better society.
This seminar, a collaborative effort of the International Association of University Presidents with Qatar Foundation and Santander Universidades, was anticipated to be a fertile ground for peer-to-peer learning. Insights from experienced university presidents and higher education experts from across the globe enriched the experience. Martín-Barbero's session, in particular, offered critical insights into the integration of an international outlook into academic leadership, resonating with the event's aim to prepare new and emerging leaders for the evolving challenges in global education.