Managing multicultural challenges: a case study of MPH program in Northern University Bangladesh

Abstract

Today’s world is characterized by globalization, development of information technology and a diversity of culture, among which the field of higher education is no different. Students from diversified culture face special challenges when they are learning in an environment that is different from them. Some of the challenges are verbal communication, linguistic barriers, understanding the locals, difference in systems, religious differences, and many more. Studying abroad bears special significance in some countries, especially in the west. But not all the students had that eligibility to study there. Developing countries and underdeveloped countries thus can work together to solve their individual needs and cooperate among themselves in the field of education, administration, health etc. This paper tries to explain in an extent that how students from another country faced special challenges in coping with the existing environment. Various factors can contribute to these challenges. Then an alternative approach has been suggested to manage the situation through collaboration between educational institutions. A case study has been presented with practical example of Masters of Public Health (MPH) program in Northern University Bangladesh. Students who studied in the MPH program in recent years in the university from Thailand and Nepal were the respondents in the study. Collaboration between Northern University Bangladesh and Chiang Mai University from Thailand and Tribhuvan University from Nepal has ushered a new opportunity among the students from Nepal and Thailand to study in Bangladesh. This collaboration can be an effective way to manage the trans-cultural differences and contribute a win-win scenario for both countries.