Between Globalization and Decolonization: Managing Tensions in the International Branch Campus Model

This research explores the rising trend of International Branch Campuses in the Global South, particularly in Egypt, through a decolonial lens to address the potential tensions between globalization and the preservation of local culture and knowledge. While International Branch University Campuses (IBCs) offer high-quality education, they may inadvertently perpetuate colonial legacies by favoring Western educational models over local knowledge systems. This study formulates a conceptual framework based on polarity management to navigate the conflicting forces at play—granting IBCs full autonomy versus implementing local guardrails to preserve cultural and educational integrity. The framework highlights the benefits and challenges of both perspectives and provides policy recommendations for stakeholders to manage these tensions effectively. By offering a pathway for decolonizing education while leveraging IBCs, this research contributes to discussions on how developing countries can balance the pursuit of robust educational standards with the protection of local cultural values.