| | 8 DECEMBER 2015HIGHERReviewGlobalization is a re-ality and we live in a global village. The national context is relevant and neces-sary to keep us rooted and create an identity while we explore alternate ways of thinking and doing as part of the internationalization process. There is a huge merit in under-standing and appreciating diversity through education and experiences. Many foreign universities have al-ready started functioning and many are in the pipeline to establish their centers in India. This will be good for students, as they will have more choice at every stage of their edu-cational life.Foreign competition is also good for incumbent universities and institutions as they will be forced to innovate, adapt and improve to be relevant and avoid obsolescence. The increasing demand for high quality faculty members will create a bigger market for researchers and academ-ics.Every professional wants to improve continuously by acquiring knowledge and upgrading skills. This is no different for academics irrespective of the institutions they are working. The institutional environment, initiatives, priorities and rewards system play a role in defining the importance given by academics to different activities which typically involves research, teaching, training, consulting and service. Many institutions are essentially teaching schools so one should not expect research output in the form of publications from faculty members. These institutions should excel in teaching. Others who encourage research should enhance their visibility by publishing in top international journals. Leading institutions have to maintain a balance between teaching and research for financial as well as operational reasons. Internationalization is also a two way street ­ global institutions set-ting up operations to tap the market for stu-dents in India as well as leading Indian in-stitutions setting up campuses abroad. While the entry of global insti-tutions occupies a lot of media space, the opportunity to attract interna-tional students to study in India or over-In My OpinionProf. G. Shainesh, Dean - Administration, Indian Institute of Management BangaloreThe Earlierthe BetterStartAreWe
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