Our intention was to have a truly international debate on the topic. From the outset we received enthusiastic support from our colleagues in the USA, Europe, and Africa to make their respective contributions. It was decided to keep the publication in line with the style of each presentation and response.
As a first formal attempt on our part to reflect on internationalisation, we chose to focus on the broad policy frameworks shaping internationalisation on the different continents. This inevitably includes some very interesting historical perspectives on how internationalisation developed via different paths in different contexts.
Our plan is to make this an annual event at the newly established comprehensive Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. The rationale and possible themes for the future are outlined by Nico Jooste in the prologue.
We wish to acknowledge Marian Neale-Shute, Piet Naude and Carlien Jooste for their editorial assistance; Kate Goldstone for her correction and editing work; Natalie Wessels and the members of the International Office for their assistance in making the colloquium possible.
We trust that this publication will contribute to a more informed debate on the topic of internationalisation. Comments and suggestions are most welcome and may be sent via email to Elize Naude.
Nico Jooste and Elize Naude
Editors