Linking higher education across continents

This is a description of the planning and implementation of a link between the Institute of Education and Research, Dacca University, Bangladesh and the University of London Institute of Education, England. The first phase of the scheme of cooperation is described, whilst the second phase continues. The changing political and economic contexts within which the link has to operate, problems of communication across continents and cultures, issues arising from the concept of institutional as contrasted with individual staff development and the role of consultants in the programme are all discussed. The Final section assesses some of the lessons learned from the experience of managing the link. Energetic institutional leadership is considered vital alongside the sustained political support of the authorities. Thorough situational analysis is crucial, if realistic aims are to be agreed. Aims should be flexible enough to allow for redefinition as institutional development occurs. In addition, both participants and sponsors must understand that institutional development cannot be achieved overnight. It is a long and difficult process which needs adequate financial administrative and managerial underpinning. A mid-term review gives an opportunity for rectifying mistakes made in the exploratory stage and building on achievements. The author discusses the dilemma which arises from the dependency of the one institution on the other due to the way aid is conceptualised. What is needed are strategies for giving substance to partnership based on respect.