Institutional Barriers in Cross-Border Teacher Mobility: A Collaborative Mechanism Framework for the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin

Abstract

The integration of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin presents a unique opportunity for educational synergy, yet cross-border teacher mobility remains constrained by multifaceted institutional barriers. This study investigates the structural, administrative, and cultural impediments hindering the efficient flow of educational talent between Zhuhai and Macao. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach involving policy analysis, a survey of 300 teachers, and interviews with 45 stakeholders, this research identifies critical bottlenecks in qualification recognition, social security alignment, and cross-cultural adaptation. The findings reveal that while policy frameworks exist, implementation gaps persist due to jurisdictional conflicts. Consequently, this paper proposes a “Multi-Dimensional Collaborative Mechanism” encompassing government-led policy coordination, market-driven resource allocation, and technology-enabled virtual mobility. This framework aims to provide actionable pathways for breaking down invisible walls and fostering a symbiotic educational ecosystem in the Greater Bay Area.