A major cluster of economic engines that have changed Asian higher education, Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan have all developed high-income societies as well as world-class universities which linked local “knowledge economies” to global science and created hubs for international collaborations and mobility. However, there has been limited analysis of interdependencies between the rise of world-class universities and changes in the flows of international talent. This paper elaborates on the concept of higher education internationalization that aims at enhancing geopolitical equity in global mobility and re-positioning local students for improved access to the world-class excellence. The paper compares key themes and patterns that define the Tiger societies’ unique positions in the field of global higher education.

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Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore the factors that influence internationally mobile students’ decision making regarding their choice to study in Hong Kong and Taiwan. Design/methodology/approach The existing literature on student motivation was examined, particularly factors relevant to the two key jurisdictions. Subsequently, a qualitative study was conducted to verify and expand upon these factors. Findings This study found a high degree of overlap between the two jurisdictions. However, Taiwan-based students emphasised elements such as the political climate, and the opinion of family, friends and peers, whereas academic quality and the perception of authority figures featured more for Hong Kong-based respondents. Practical implications The similarities and disparities between the two jurisdictions provide insights for decision makers, as well as avenues for further research. Originality/value This paper builds upon prior research into international student destination choice by exploring students’ decision-making process through qualitative research; thus, highlighting previously unexplored factors.

Hong Kong's distinct system, as a Special Administrative Region within the People's Republic of China, makes it an interesting case when examining the notion of citizenship, and how it shapes and is shaped by the education system. This article examines the existing literature at this important point in the territory's development. This review contains important lessons not only for the study of citizenship in Hong Kong, but also for how regional identity and citizenship can be shaped by the historical, social, and political forces. Finally, this article will present some of the gaps, which have been identified by scholars in the field.

PurposeThe management of higher education institutions (HEIs) is undergoing a period of rapid development around the world and particularly in Asia. Competing forces of neoliberal decentralisation, increased government oversight, internationalisation and regionalism are creating difficulties for managers and stakeholders alike. This paper aims to look at the ways in which universities have institutionalised their strategies for coping with these forces, in the form of their mission statements (MSs), particularly within an East Asian context.Design/methodology/approachSeveral major international university ranking tables were used to compile a list of “world class” institutions in East Asia. Those with available MSs in English were examined for reference to factors existing within the literature, as well as those which were not previously identified.FindingsEast Asian universities placed a high degree of emphasis on aspects related to university management, as well as social, cultural and historical foci. Far less emphasis was placed on aspects such as engagement of stakeholders and inclusion.Originality/valueThe paper draws on previous research from other regions and attempts to provide some insights into the particularities of higher education in East Asia from a management perspective.