Dr Vicky Lewis’ Post

What is the role of Chinese universities in China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)? Through a narrative case study with three Chinese universities known for their successful collaborative education programs with three developing regions of the world (Central Asia, South East Asia and Africa), this paper has shown the detailed ways in which such programs are funded, structured and implemented. Using knowledge diplomacy as a theoretical lens, this study aims to describe and evaluate the role of Chinese universities in the BRI programs in meeting the urgent talent needs of key infrastructure and energy industries in the global south. Through these three cases, the study also aims to shed light on China’s economic goals in international education that are currently absent in policy documents and academic literature.  Just out. Published open access with support from Canadian Research Knowledge Network (CRKN). If interested, please download it and take a read. Let me know if you have questions.

🎓 Education Diplomacy: Building Bridges Through Knowledge 🎓 Education is one of the most powerful tools for fostering international understanding and peace. Programs like Erasmus+, Fulbright, and scholarships for students from developing nations not only enhance skills but also create lifelong connections across borders. 📚 Education diplomacy is about more than exchanges. It’s also about addressing global inequalities in access to knowledge. From internet connectivity gaps to gender disparities in education, how can the global community ensure learning opportunities for all? Emerging fields like AI and climate science demand global collaboration. By investing in education diplomacy, nations can empower the next generation to tackle shared challenges with shared solutions. How can we expand the reach and impact of education diplomacy in a rapidly changing world? #EducationDiplomacy #GlobalLearning #CulturalExchange #FutureGenerations

💡 Such an interesting blog post! 🚨 Anyone interested/working in academic international relations should have a look at this article. Spoiler: world of academia is changing.

🎓 Academic mobility and academic partnerships are becoming ever more important, including as part of a sustainable German foreign policy. German #science diplomacy is an active force in shaping these networks and campaigns for the freedom of academia and research around the world. Ultimately, the only way to overcome global challenges such as peace, climate change and pandemics is by working together with international partners. Learn more about it 👇 #Germany #StudyInGermany #WorkinGermany

Exploring the Pinnacle of Diplomacy and International Relations Education --- I'm often asked about the best places to pursue a degree in diplomacy and international relations. The answer lies in institutions that not only provide top-tier education but also foster an environment where future diplomats and international experts can thrive. 🌐 The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) - With an acceptance rate of just 8%, LSE stands at the forefront of international relations education, offering a diverse range of programs and a rich history of academic excellence. 🏛️ University of Oxford - Steeped in history and academic prowess, Oxford offers a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for the complexities of global diplomacy. 🇺🇸 Ohio State University - A leader in North America, Ohio State University combines rigorous academics with practical experience, equipping students with the skills needed in today's dynamic international landscape. These institutions are just the tip of the iceberg. From King's College London to Australian National University and beyond, the options for quality education in this field are as vast as they are prestigious. #Diplomacy #University

We are very pleased to announce the MSc in Gender and Diplomatic Practice, in partnership with University of Stirling, launching in September 2025. This new unique programme combines gender studies with diplomatic practice, providing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for a career in international relations. Students will engage with key gender concepts, learn from seasoned United Nations professionals, and gain the skills needed for diplomacy and leadership in an inclusive, global context. Learn more through the link in the comments ⬇️

I had the opportunity to attend the Iraq – UK Higher Education Dialogue last week in London in partnership with the British Council. The aim was to identify ways of building Iraq Internationalization bridge in this idea of global society. Student & Staff mobility emerged as a dynamic way for internationalization of higher education. Not only I had the rewarding opportunity to experience this as a mobility student in 2016, but also, through my research on the role of universities in the International Society and how and why they use internationalization as a driver of education and social transformation offering an innovative interdisciplinary curriculum. We need to work closer together to build a better future for global education, modern research, and fruitful projects to keep pace with the increasingly changing world of the 21st century. I believe we can do more to take on the future and play a role in society “unlocking potential for all, changing lives regionally, nationally and internationally”. #internationalization #highereducation #globalsociety #studentmobility #internationalrelations #culturalrelations #diplomacy

The new semester starts tomorrow so I thought I'd give you a quick rundown of my courses. The first course (bachelor's degree) covers the links between culture, politics and globalisation. It will also address the study of strategies of power, influence and attractiveness, and will broaden the perspective of students by encouraging them to think about the world of today and tomorrow with a focus on the important cultural challenges we face. The second course (master's degree) is equally engaging, as it also explore various themes, such as diplomacy, persuasion, cultural dynamics and most importantly the human aspect. Students in both courses will benefit from my experience as a researcher and practitioner.

As an educator of international relations, I believe history is the true laboratory for scholars in this field. The larger the scope of this laboratory, the more adept researchers become at deciphering current affairs and formulating scenarios for the future. In my courses on the history of international relations, world history, contemporary global issues, and contemporary Arab issues, I always start my lectures with this introduction. At universities such as Masar, Zaytoonah International, and Sham Universities, I strive to help my students comprehend the background of international relations. It is only with this understanding that they can develop the skills necessary to evaluate current events in the Middle East. Join me in recognizing the importance of history in shaping our understanding of international relations. #InternationalRelations #History #MiddleEast #Education