By: The Division of Communications & Advancement
Continuing to celebrate its 120-year legacy, Rhodes University illustrated its deep commitment to internationalisation and gender equity by sponsoring a unique publication. "Women in Internationalisation" was produced by HERS-SA in association with Rhodes University, which generously sponsored its layout.
Orla Quinlan, Director of Global Engagement at Rhodes University, states, "There was a synchronicity in celebrating 120 years of Rhodes University, 30 years of democracy, Women’s Month, and our interest in and commitment to international education, which converged in this publication." It celebrates women's contributions to international education within South Africa's higher education landscape. Edited by Quinlan, the book is a powerful platform for the stories, experiences, and wisdom of women who have played crucial roles in advancing internationalisation within South African universities. In this work, Quinlan masterfully brings together the voices of women from diverse backgrounds, generations, and disciplines, each contributing their unique perspectives to the broader narrative of gender equity and global engagement.
Quinlan’s leadership and vision are deeply intertwined with the book's goals. Her background as a key figure in international education in South Africa, coupled with her two-year tenure as President of the International Education Association of South Africa (IEASA) and her continuing service on its Council, gives her a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities women face in this field. Her work on this publication is a natural extension of her broader commitment to promoting gender equity and fostering global engagement at Rhodes University and beyond.
Rhodes University’s support of this project is a testament to its commitment to these ideals, mainly when the university and the country reflect on thirty years of democracy. "As we commemorate thirty years of democracy in South Africa, gender disparity persists in the workplace, and the higher education sector is not exempt from this issue," Quinlan observes in the introduction. Indeed, while South Africa has made significant strides in terms of gender equality, the reality is that women, especially in higher education, continue to face discrimination, exclusion, and other forms of gender-based violence. Therefore, this publication is essential to the academic and social discourses around these issues.
The publication features the stories of 26 women, each offering a unique insight into their career in international education. These women, from senior academics to administrators, share candid reflections on their journeys. Many attribute their successes to the mentorship and support from other women, a recurring theme throughout the book. They also speak of the challenges they have faced—both personal and professional—and how these have shaped their careers.
For instance, Tohiera Bagus, a Manager at the International Education Association of South Africa, highlights the power of perseverance and self-confidence, noting, "The most valuable piece of advice I’ve received from another woman was to 'be comfortable in your own skin.'" She explains that this advice has helped her navigate the often-challenging landscape of international education. Bagus also reflects on the importance of gratitude and collaboration, stating, "My engagement in international education has enriched both my personal and professional life. Exposure to diverse perspectives has broadened my worldview and shaped my evolution as a leader."
Similarly, Tracy Beckett, Manager at the International Relations Office of the University of the Western Cape, underscores the value of global connections, stating that she thrives on helping others navigate the complexities of international programs. "Witnessing first hand how these collaborations open doors to new cultures, ideas, and ways of thinking deeply motivates me," Beckett explains. Her work is a testament to how internationalisation in higher education creates pathways for personal and professional growth, fostering a deeper understanding of global citizenship.
The women featured in the publication are diverse regarding their professional roles, personal philosophies, and leadership styles. Anisa Khan, Director of Academic Services at the University of Johannesburg, offers a particularly reflective and personal narrative. She describes her journey into international education as "a series of saviour moments," highlighting how her entry into the field—following the tragic death of her husband—offered her new hope and opportunities she had never imagined. "My first job in this space was a 'marriage of convenience,' but ultimately, it became a lifeline," Khan shares, illustrating how international education can open doors to new possibilities, even in the most challenging circumstances.
Another standout narrative is from Nolusindiso Kayi, Senior Manager of Strategic Projects at the South African Qualifications Authority. Kayi emphasises the importance of trust and empowerment in leadership, stating, "If people know you believe in them, they will work hard to 'pay back' that trust." Kayi’s work advancing regional qualifications frameworks speaks to the transformative potential of international collaboration, particularly in promoting skills mobility across Africa. Her story is one of dedication, resilience, and a deep commitment to lifelong learning.
Orla Quinlan’s reflections in the book provide a broader context for the importance of such initiatives. She notes that despite the progress made in gender equity within South Africa’s higher education system, "gender-based violence remains the dominant gender discourse in higher education." This is a sobering reminder that while initiatives like this publication are critical for showcasing women’s achievements, much work still needs to be done to create safe, supportive, and equitable environments for women in academia and beyond.
Quinlan also speaks to the structural barriers that women face in the workplace, highlighting issues such as unequal pay, sexual harassment, and the silencing of women’s voices in collective spaces. "How many ideas proposed by women in meetings are ignored until a man repeats them?" she asks, drawing attention to the subtle but pervasive forms of discrimination that many women continue to encounter in their professional lives.
What makes "Women in Internationalisation" particularly significant is its celebration of individual achievements and its collective call for solidarity among women in higher education. As many featured women note, lifting each other and creating supportive networks is vital to overcoming the existing challenges.
For Rhodes University, this book is more than just a celebration of Women’s Month or an academic project—it is a statement of the university’s commitment to gender equity, internationalisation, and the transformative power of education. At a national level, the institution was one of the sponsors of the 26th International Education Association of South Africa (IEASA). Rhodes University has also been active globally, recently embarking on its first international student recruitment campaign in collaboration with Study International. Additionally, Quinlan announced the institution’s participation in the European Association of International Education (EAIE) in Toulouse, France, promoting South Africa as a study destination of choice, while celebrating 120 years of educational excellence, alongside thirteen other South African universities.
Quinlan writes in her editorial, "This publication is my gift to some of the women I work closely with in international education." It is also a gift to future generations of women. It offers inspiration, guidance, and a powerful reminder of the importance of resilience, collaboration, and self-belief in the journey toward gender equity. Through this initiative, Rhodes University has elevated women's voices and contributed to a broader global dialogue about the role of international education in fostering a more just and equitable society.