Message from the Editor-in-Chief

Abstract

It is with great pride and enthusiasm that I welcome readers and contributors to the first issue of 2026 for the International Journal of Higher Education, Volume 15, Number 1. This issue marks the beginning of a new scholarly platform dedicated to advancing research, dialogue, and innovation within higher education across global contexts.

The mission of IJHE is to provide an international, peer-reviewed forum for high-quality research that bridges theory, policy, and practice. We seek to publish work that informs institutional leadership, enhances teaching and learning, strengthens governance frameworks, and promotes inclusive and sustainable educational systems. This journal values interdisciplinary inquiry and encourages contributions from scholars, practitioners, and policy-makers whose work addresses contemporary challenges and emerging trends in higher education.

Higher education stands at a pivotal moment in history. Institutions worldwide are navigating rapid technological transformation, evolving student demographics, shifting geopolitical landscapes, and growing demands for equity, sustainability, and accountability. Universities are being called upon not only to generate knowledge but also to model inclusion, ethical leadership, and societal responsibility. In this dynamic environment, rigorous research and thoughtful scholarship are more important than ever.

The eight articles featured in this issue reflect the diversity and complexity of the field.  This issue is dominated by articles from Canada and the USA, but we also hear from researchers from Saudi Arabia, Uganda and China. Contributions explore themes including innovative pedagogical practices, digital transformation, student engagement, academic leadership, quality assurance, and internationalisation. Collectively, they demonstrate the vibrancy of scholarship that is shaping the future of tertiary education.