Towards good higher education partnerships

This research examines elements of global higher education (HE) partnerships and the roles of dialogue(s) and co-creation in knowledge production aimed at fostering sustainable partnerships. By studying and reflecting on the processes of global South–North HE partnership building, this research sheds light on the complexities and opportunities of developing meaningful relationships. Limited understanding of what constitutes a good partnership and synergy between Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4 and 17 raises questions about how to foster sustainable partnerships at both local and global levels. This article presents findings from partnership dialogues among academic and administrative staff from African and Finnish universities, all experienced in HE partnerships. The data comprise responses from a questionnaire and a multi-stakeholder workshop addressing what constitutes a good partnership. The findings result in a generic metaphoric model that depicts our view of a partnership as a butterfly comprising two (institutional) wings interconnected by various relationships that enable individuals in HE institutions to engage in dialogue(s), reflect on existing practices, and build more equitable and sustainable collaborations. We conclude that the foundations of solid, transformative HE partnerships are developed through collaboration and co-creation among individuals. This study contributes to international education by demonstrating how dialogue and co-creation within HE partnerships can advance sustainability across global contexts while also fostering critical reflection and scaling up action-oriented, reciprocal institutional transformation.