Cosmopolitan nationalism in action: navigating global educational mandates in Ecuador’s public schools

The article examines cosmopolitan nationalism within the context of imposed internationalization in Ecuador's education, focusing on Unidad Educativa Carlos Tobar (UECT) and its integration of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). It explores the teachers’ use of ‘vincular’–linking global curricula to local realities–as a manifestation of cosmopolitan nationalism in practice. Although imperfect, this approach is presented as a necessity for educators to bridge international standards with local educational needs, reflecting the everyday negotiations and adaptations made by teachers and students. The study emphasizes cosmopolitan nationalism’s tangible presence in educational settings, enriching our understanding of its significance in navigating global-local education dynamics. By illustrating the active engagement of UECT's community with cosmopolitan nationalism, the article argues for its importance not only theoretically but as a lived experience, enhancing cosmopolitan nationalism’s relevance in discussing educational internationalization challenges.