Diaspora theoretical contributors: bridging transnational knowledge and transforming global academia

Mogaji, Emmanuel

Abstract

In an increasingly interconnected academic landscape, diaspora theoretical contributors play a crucial role in shaping transnational knowledge production. These scholars, despite residing outside their countries of origin, leverage their diverse experiences, extensive networks, and academic training to generate theoretical insights that bridge global and local knowledge systems. This research introduces and conceptualises their contributions, drawing on key constructs such as cultural hybridity, which highlights the transformative spaces they navigate, and epistemicide, which underscores the need for pluralistic academic legitimacy. Calls for decolonising academia and critiques of helicopter research further emphasise the ethical necessity of fostering inclusive, collaborative knowledge production. The study categorises diaspora scholars into four profiles: Peripheral Contributors, Integrated Theorists, Home-Centric Scholars, and Transnational Innovators, each with unique contributions and challenges. Using thematic analysis of qualitative data, it explores how engagement with home and host academic environments shapes their scholarly impact. Findings offer actionable strategies for academic institutions, funding bodies, and policymakers to support these scholars through mentorship, funding, and policy engagement. Ultimately, this research highlights the transformative role of diaspora scholars in fostering a more inclusive, globally connected academia, advocating for greater recognition and strategic support to maximise their influence on transnational knowledge production.

Citation

Mogaji, E. (2025). Diaspora theoretical contributors: bridging transnational knowledge and transforming global academia. Globalisation, Societies and Education, 23(4), 1-20. https://doi.org/10.1080/14767724.2025.2531977

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Jul 2, 2025
• Online Publication Date: Jul 15, 2025
• Publication Date: 2025
• Deposit Date: Jul 31, 2025
• Journal: Globalisation, Societies and Education
• Print ISSN: 1476-7724
• Electronic ISSN: 1476-7732
• Publisher: Routledge
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 23
• Issue: 4
• Pages: 1-20
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/14767724.2025.2531977
• Keywords: Diaspora scholars, transnational research, global discourse, academic engagement, knowledge production, cross-border collaboration, decolonisation of research
• Public URL: https://keele-repository.worktribe.com/output/1328051