Strategic International Human Resource Management (SIHRM) Practices as Predictors of Internationalization in African Higher Education Institutions: A Systematic Review
Abstract
Strategic International Human Resource Management (SIHRM) practices are increasingly recognized as critical drivers of internationalization of African Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). This systematic review, following PRISMA guidelines, synthesized 70 studies from an initial 1,704 records across five databases (Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, ERIC, ProQuest). Grounded in the Resource-Based View (RBV), Bartlett and Ghoshal's Transnational Model, and Institutional Theory, the study identifies five SIHRM practices that predict internationalization outcomes in HEIs: strategic recruitment and selection; training and development; performance management; retention and talent management; and cross-cultural development. These practices predict four internationalization outcomes: staff and student physical and virtual mobility; strategic research and innovation partnerships; internationalization of the curriculum and harmonization of quality assurance frameworks. The study concludes that SIHRM practices significantly predict internationalization, but their effectiveness depends on contextual factors examined separately. Virtual mobility offers a viable, inclusive pathway for resource-constrained African HEIs. Policy harmonization, digital infrastructure investment, increased funding, and HR reforms are urgently recommended.
Keywords: Strategic Human Resource Management Practices, Internationalization and African Higher Education Institutions.
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