Globalizing adult and higher education in Africa: qualitative evidence and future research agenda in Nigeria

Abstract

Globalization plays a pivotal role in shaping adult and higher education across the regions of the world, driven by rapid technological advancement, the diffusion of knowledge, and expanding cross-border educational practices. This study examined globalization of adult and higher education in Africa with qualitative evidence and proposed a future research agenda for Nigeria that can inform policy on adult education. A qualitative case study design was adopted, and the study was conducted between 23 April and 19 May 2026. Purposive and snowball sampling techniques were employed to select ( n  = 15) highly experienced participants involved in adult and higher education policy implementation from various institutions and organizations. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data, which were audio-recorded and verbatim transcribed. The transcripts were then analysed using NVivo Software and coded. The study adhered to all ethical considerations. Participants identified inadequate funding, weak institutional capacity, limited government support, poor infrastructure, and gaps between policy formulation and implementation as major challenges affecting the globalization of adult and higher education in Nigeria. This study used a qualitative approach, which limits its statistically generalizable findings to the broader population because of the relatively small sample size. Future research should adopt diverse methodological approaches, including quantitative, mixed-methods, and longitudinal research designs, to generate a more comprehensive understanding of how globalization influences adult and higher education. This review contributes to adult education and lifelong learning by advancing an integrated understanding of how globalization influences the policy and practice of adult and higher education in Nigeria.