KNOWLEDGE OF FOREIGN LANGUAGE – A KEY FACTOR FOR THE INTERNATIONALIZATION OF HIGHER EDUCATION IN UKRAINE

Abstract

The article analyzes the role of knowledge of foreign language as a key factor for the internationalization of higher education in Ukraine. An analysis of methodological works of contemporary Ukrainian scholars has shown that Ukrainian scholars have significantly deepened their understanding of how higher education institutions can orient themselves, develop, and implement internationalization processes in transitional settings. Their work serves as a guide for internal reforms and is also valuable thematic research for global higher education communities. The article concludes that knowledge of foreign languages, particularly English, is a key factor in the internationalization of higher education, as it provides: access to global scientific knowledge and research results (enables students and researchers to access scientific literature, new discoveries, and international research, which is the basis for the development of education and science around the world); opportunities for international cooperation and exchange (foreign language skills open the door to communication, exchange of ideas, and collaboration with colleagues from other countries, which stimulates innovation and spreads knowledge); mobility of students and teachers (language skills are a prerequisite for participation in international exchange programs, internships, conferences, and study abroad, which enriches educational process and promotes professional development), and also promotes tolerance and understanding of other cultures (learning foreign languages is accompanied by an introduction to other cultures, which helps to develop tolerance, overcome prejudices, and better understand not only foreign cultures, but also one’s own culture). Knowledge of foreign languages brings Ukrainian higher education to global level, promoting its integration into the world educational space and increasing its competitiveness. The article highlights areas for further research: academic mobility programs (analysis of barriers for foreign students in Ukrainian higher education institutions); intercultural competence of teachers (research on how foreign language teachers prepare to teach diverse student population).