Why International Education Strengthens Competitiveness For American Companies
Preview:
International student enrollment in the U.S. is slowing, and study abroad participation has yet to fully recover from the pandemic, putting long-term pressure on American competitiveness. International education drives economic impact, fuels innovation, strengthens workforce skills, and even has implications for national security and the defense labor pool. Business leaders are urged to treat international education as a strategic investment rather than an afterthought.
Originally published: January 30, 2026
Author: Justin Schwartz
Position: Chancellor
Institution: University of Colorado Boulder
Published by: Forbes