Divergent Paths to Global Recognition

This study provides the first quantitative analysis of active and lapsed ABET-accredited programs across 23 European, Latin American, and African nations. It compares regional adoption, sustainability, and the demands of maintaining this international accreditation, which Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) pursue for enhanced reputation, employability, and curriculum alignment. The analysis reveals distinct strategic profiles: Europe focuses on prestige through flagship universities; Latin America combines scale with niche specializations; Africa pursues capacity-building with constraints. Notably, engagement with frameworks like the Seoul Accord remains limited, revealing a gap between national systems and international quality alignment. The findings offer evidence-based insights for strategic planning, recommending adaptive support to enhance educational quality, sustainability, and global competitiveness, thus advancing higher education standards worldwide.