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International Academics as Agents of Transformation: Lived and Managed Internationalization in a Finnish University

Author

Listed:
  • Vesna Holubek

    (Faculty of Education and Culture, Tampere University, Finland)

  • Derek Ruez

    (Faculty of Management and Business, Tampere University, Finland)

  • Mila Bujić

    (Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences, Tampere University, Finland)

  • Marisa Honkanen

    (Independent Researcher, Finland)

  • Zsuzsa Millei

    (Faculty of Education and Culture, Tampere University, Finland)

Abstract

This article explores internationalization processes as an ongoing transformation of higher education institutions by examining a case of internationalization efforts at Tampere University (TAU) in Finland. Against the prevailing policy discourse of international “talent” which tends to instrumentalize international academics, we explore how the experiences of international academics provide a window into complicated dynamics of lived and managed internationalization, including how international academics are themselves agents of transformation. This case study combines a survey and interviews with self‐identified international staff at TAU, as well as our own critical reflections as a team of international and Finnish academics who conducted the research and used the findings to advocate for changes. Our analysis emphasizes a relational understanding of international academics and highlights intersecting challenges around language, uncertain career prospects, and distance from university decision‐making forums. Taken together, the findings illuminate the contradictory positioning of international academics and show the complicated convergences and divergences between managerial attempts to increase the university’s global competitiveness and the diverse needs, positionalities, and agencies of international academics.

Suggested Citation

  • Vesna Holubek & Derek Ruez & Mila Bujić & Marisa Honkanen & Zsuzsa Millei, 2026. "International Academics as Agents of Transformation: Lived and Managed Internationalization in a Finnish University," Social Inclusion, Cogitatio Press, vol. 14.
    • Handle: RePEc:cog:socinc:v14:y:2026:a:11672
    DOI: 10.17645/si.11672
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Scott, Peter, 2015. "Dynamics of Academic Mobility: Hegemonic Internationalisation or Fluid Globalisation," European Review, Cambridge University Press, vol. 23(S1), pages 55-69, May.
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