Challenges, Opportunities, and Impacts of Intercultural Management on Educational Quality in Higher Education: A Critical Literature Review

Abstract

This article explores the role of intercultural management in enhancing the quality of higher education within increasingly diverse and globalized academic environments. As universities worldwide face rising levels of international mobility, cultural diversity, and evolving educational expectations, higher education institutions (HEIs) are challenged to adapt their organizational practices to remain inclusive and effective. This study assesses the conceptual and practical connections between intercultural management and educational quality through an analytical review of the academic literature. It investigates how HEIs have implemented intercultural strategies, identifies the challenges and opportunities that arise in this process, and highlights the importance of leadership, communication, and cultural competence in fostering inclusive academic spaces. The central argument is that intercultural management, when strategically embedded in institutional culture can enhance student experiences, improve organizational performance, and support equity in education. This article offers practical insights for academic leaders and policymakers seeking to navigate cultural complexity, and it emphasizes the need for intentional, context-sensitive approaches to sustain educational excellence in a multicultural world.

Keywords: Intercultural management, Higher education, Educational quality, Intercultural competence, Cultural diversity

DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/17-7-03

Publication date:August 31^st 2025