Globalization and Cultural Exchange The Role of Transnational Education in Strengthening International Relations.

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Published: Nov 30, 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.58812/esle.v3i03.815
Keywords:
globalization cultural exchange transnational education soft power international relations

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Thomas Sheku Marah
Nusa Putra University, Indonesia

Abstract

The worldwide integration process has established transnational education as an essential instrument for cultural sharing and international unity. This paper examines how transnational education supports globalization and international relations through its ability to spread knowledge and promote cultural understanding and diplomatic power. The study demonstrates through case examinations of Fulbright Program and Erasmus+ and Confucius Institutes and international branch campuses that education serves as a diplomatic instrument to build trust between states and societies while creating lasting networks. The research reveals ongoing issues with elitist accessibility and Western-centric educational programs and potential neo-colonial practices which prevent equal participation and mutual benefit. The analysis suggests that policy modifications should broaden educational opportunities while strengthening South-South relations and digital inclusion and intercultural education components. The solutions to these problems will enable TNE to develop into an inclusive instrument which strengthens cultural exchanges between nations and supports cooperative international relations during global interdependence.

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How to Cite
Marah, T. S. (2025). Globalization and Cultural Exchange: The Role of Transnational Education in Strengthening International Relations. The Eastasouth Journal of Learning and Educations, 3(03), 237–243. https://doi.org/10.58812/esle.v3i03.815
Issue
Vol. 3 No. 03 (2025): The Eastasouth Journal of Learning and Educations (ESLE)
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Articles
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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.

Author Biography

Thomas Sheku Marah, Nusa Putra University, Indonesia

Thomas Sheku Marah is a Sierra Leonean scholar, youth leader, and social entrepreneur passionate about education, law, and international development. He is currently pursuing studies in Computer Science at the University of the People and International Law at Nusa Putra University, Indonesia. His academic interests span international law, human rights, global governance, intellectual property law, and the role of technology in advancing education and development.

He is the Founder of the Salone Future Leaders Foundation, an initiative dedicated to empowering rural education and nurturing future leaders in Sierra Leone. Through this and other community-based projects, including the Empowering Rural Education in Sierra Leone program, he has reached over 5,000 children and youth across rural communities such as Kurubonla Village, Mongo Town, and Falaba District. He also serves as the Executive Secretary of Lyft Africa (Sierra Leone Chapter), where he leads youth-focused initiatives aimed at fostering transformation across Africa.

Thomas has represented Sierra Leone in several international programs, including the International Cultural Program (ICP) in Makassar, Indonesia, and has published articles on youth participation in global governance and calls for international justice. His leadership and volunteerism extend to organizations such as the Dahuni Foundation, where he has worked to advance community development.

Thomas is committed to promoting access to quality education, strengthening democratic institutions, and building international partnerships. His long-term vision is to empower the next generation of leaders and to foster peace, justice, and development across Africa.

Research Interests: International Law, Human Rights, Humanitarian Law, Global Governance, Intellectual Property Law, Development Economics, Education Policy, and Digital Technology in Education.

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