Emerging Voices From Cambodia

This chapter studies Cambodian international students' travel patterns, changes brought about by the students' new culture, and how students helped to shape the globalized knowledge society. Using a qualitative narrative inquiry approach, it draws on in-depth accounts from Cambodian graduates. Findings show that motivations for studying abroad stem from academic quality, career goals, scholarship opportunities, and social influences. Participants recount adapting to substantial academic and cultural changes, acquiring advanced expertise, and cultivating perspectives on global citizenship. Returnees to Cambodia take on professional positions and participate in community-level activities which contribute to development, but they face challenges; unrecognized degrees and limited domestic work capacity. This chapter suggests the need to match global competencies with regional priorities and enhance regional cooperation. It highlights the relevance of Cambodian perspectives regarding the internationalization of higher education and strategizing for evidence-based development frameworks.