Introduction
With globalization and the rapid advancement of technology, education is no longer restricted by geographical boundaries. The international supply of educational services allows institutions to reach students worldwide through multiple modes. These modes are defined by the World Trade Organization (WTO) under the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS).
Main Modes of International Supply of Educational Services
According to WTO, there are four major modes of international supply of services, including educational services. These are:
1. Cross-Border Supply (Mode 1)
In this mode, educational services are delivered from one country to another without the physical movement of the student or the teacher. It is made possible mainly through digital technologies such as the internet.
Example:
- Online courses offered by institutions like Coursera, edX, or IGNOU’s online programmes to international students.
- MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) available globally.
2. Consumption Abroad (Mode 2)
Here, the learner travels to another country to receive education. This is the most traditional and well-known mode of international education trade.
Example:
- Indian students going to the USA or UK for higher education.
- Foreign students enrolling in Indian institutions like IGNOU under the international division.
3. Commercial Presence (Mode 3)
This mode refers to educational institutions establishing physical facilities in a foreign country. It involves the setting up of campuses, franchises, or partnerships with local institutions.
Example:
- Australian universities having campuses in Singapore or Dubai.
- IGNOU’s partnership with institutions in the Middle East or Africa to offer its programmes.
4. Presence of Natural Persons (Mode 4)
This involves the physical movement of educators, researchers, or trainers across countries to deliver educational services.
Example:
- Professors from the UK teaching in Indian universities under exchange programmes.
- Educational consultants travelling abroad to conduct training workshops.
Conclusion
The international supply of educational services takes place through four major modes — cross-border delivery, consumption abroad, commercial presence, and movement of persons. These modes have helped in the globalization of education and provided wider access to knowledge. Institutions like IGNOU can utilize these modes to expand their reach and contribute to global human capital development.