Managing global partnerships for quality improvement in higher education: A case study from Indonesia

Abstract

This research investigates how an Islamic state university in Indonesia organizes and sustains international partnerships as part of its quality improvement agenda. The case focuses on Universitas Islam Negeri Mataram, a relatively young institution that recently earned national excellence accreditation. Using a qualitative single-case study, data were collected from in-depth interviews with senior academic leaders and faculty members directly involved in international activities, as well as a review of official strategic documents and partnership records. Thematic analysis supported by NVivo software was employed to identify recurring patterns and critical insights. The study reveals four primary forms of collaboration—joint research projects, academic mobility, co-authored publications, and emerging dual degree initiatives—which have contributed to curriculum enhancement, increased research visibility, and strengthened accreditation outcomes. These partnerships are not merely symbolic but are embedded in the university’s strategic plan, reflecting a deliberate shift toward measurable results. Nonetheless, challenges such as limited staff capacity, coordination gaps, and fluctuating funding remain significant constraints. The findings contribute to the literature by providing a rare, context-specific account of strategic internationalization in a faith-based university within the Global South. The study offers practical guidance for higher education leaders seeking to align global engagement with institutional missions, while also inviting comparative research to explore similar models in other underrepresented academic contexts.