The World of Higher Education

Higher Education Strategy Associates
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The World of Higher Education

The World of Higher Education is dedicated to exploring developments in higher education from a global perspective. Join host, Alex Usher of Higher Education Strategy Associates, as he speaks with new guests each week from different countries discussing developments in their regions. Produced by Tiffany MacLennan and Samantha Pufek.

  1. The Year the Money Ran Out: Global Higher Ed Review

    JUN 12

    The Year the Money Ran Out: Global Higher Ed Review

    In this episode of the World of Higher Education Podcast, co-producer, Tiffany MacLennan is our host and Alex Usher takes a turn in the question seat. Together, they review the most significant global higher education stories of the year, discussing topics such as the impacts of Trump's policies on international education, massification, the role of private higher education, and the financial challenges faced by universities worldwide. The conversation highlights examples from various countries, including Ireland, Uzbekistan, Dubai, Nigeria, Egypt, and more, while also examining the potential effects of funding cuts to American science on global research. 👉 Episode Links:  WorldEd 3.27: Innovation Without Borders: Galileo’s Networked Approach to Better Higher Education System with Nicolas BadréVietnam: Outrage at student height requirement (DW, Vietnam)Higher Education Strategy Associates: The Fifteen Please note, the views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors, and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team, or our sponsors. This episode is sponsored by KnowMeQ. ArchieCPL is the first AI-enabled tool that massively streamlines credit for prior learning evaluation. Toronto based KnowMeQ makes ethical AI tools that boost and bottom line, achieving new efficiencies in higher ed and workforce upskilling.

    25 min
  2. Cut, Coerce, Control: What Trump Is Doing to U.S. Universities

    JUN 5

    Cut, Coerce, Control: What Trump Is Doing to U.S. Universities

    In this episode of The World of Higher Education Podcast, Alex Usher discusses the Trump administration's unprecedented actions against science and universities. Billions of dollars in funding from the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health have been stripped, international students are facing deportation, and low-income students are seeing cuts to loans and grants. Brendan Cantwell from Michigan State University returns to analyze these strategies and tactics, drawing on insights from the controversial Project 2025. They explore the administration's coercive measures, the sector's response, and the potential future of higher education under these policies.  Please note, the views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors, and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team, or our sponsors. This episode is sponsored by KnowMeQ. ArchieCPL is the first AI-enabled tool that massively streamlines credit for prior learning evaluation. Toronto based KnowMeQ makes ethical AI tools that boost and bottom line, achieving new efficiencies in higher ed and workforce upskilling.

    29 min
  3. Opening January 2026: Inside One of the Biggest University Mergers in Australia

    MAY 29

    Opening January 2026: Inside One of the Biggest University Mergers in Australia

    In this episode of The World of Higher Education Podcast, host Alex Usher discusses the historic merger of two major Australian universities—the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia—set to be completed by January 2026. This merger will form Adelaide University, which will be one of the largest academic institutions in the country. Alex interviews David Lloyd, Vice Chancellor and President of the University of South Australia, and Co-Vice Chancellor of Adelaide University, who shares insights about the motivations, strategic planning, and potential impacts of this significant merger. David also elaborates on the potential benefits, challenges in maintaining distinct missions, and the broader implications for higher education internationally. Please note, the views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors, and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team, or our sponsors. This episode is sponsored by KnowMeQ. ArchieCPL is the first AI-enabled tool that massively streamlines credit for prior learning evaluation. Toronto based KnowMeQ makes ethical AI tools that boost and bottom line, achieving new efficiencies in higher ed and workforce upskilling.

    31 min
  4. Incremental Change or System Overhaul? An Update on Higher Ed Reform in NZ with Roger Smyth

    MAY 22

    Incremental Change or System Overhaul? An Update on Higher Ed Reform in NZ with Roger Smyth

    Join Alex Usher in the latest episode of the World of Higher Education Podcast as he discusses the hyperactive state of New Zealand's higher education policy with Roger Smyth, a former senior New Zealand public servant, now a consultant. The episode delves into the recent activities of the University Advisory Group, government decisions affecting institutional frameworks, the controversial halt in humanities and social sciences research funding, the financial challenges faced by universities, and the merger of polytechnics into one national institution. Roger provides insightful updates on the progress and impacts of these changes, shedding light on the broader implications for the sector. Tune in to stay informed on the evolving landscape of higher education in New Zealand. 👉 Episode Links:  WorldEd 2.16: The Failed Fees Free Policy in New ZealandPlease note, the views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors, and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team, or our sponsors. This episode is sponsored by KnowMeQ. ArchieCPL is the first AI-enabled tool that massively streamlines credit for prior learning evaluation. Toronto based KnowMeQ makes ethical AI tools that boost and bottom line, achieving new efficiencies in higher ed and workforce upskilling.

    26 min
  5. Between Excellence and Relevance: The Regional University Dilemma

    MAY 15

    Between Excellence and Relevance: The Regional University Dilemma

    In this episode of The World of Higher Education Podcast, Alex Usher is joined by Dr. Romulo Pinheiro, a professor at the University of Agder, Norway. They discuss the evolving role of universities in regional economic development, particularly in peripheral areas. Dr. Pinheiro shares insights on the challenges and strategies for universities in less densely populated regions, their global and local ambitions, and the vital role of trust. They also explore the balance between global excellence and regional relevance, the effect of institutional and disciplinary structures, and the importance of autonomy and diversity in ensuring institutional resilience. Tune in to understand how universities can realistically contribute to solving regional problems without being seen as the fixers of all societal issues. Please note, the views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors, and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team, or our sponsors. This episode is sponsored by KnowMeQ. ArchieCPL is the first AI-enabled tool that massively streamlines credit for prior learning evaluation. Toronto based KnowMeQ makes ethical AI tools that boost and bottom line, achieving new efficiencies in higher ed and workforce upskilling.

    27 min
  6. Banking on Human Capital: How RBC Sees the Future of Talent, Innovation, and the Role of Post-Secondary Institutions

    MAY 8

    Banking on Human Capital: How RBC Sees the Future of Talent, Innovation, and the Role of Post-Secondary Institutions

    Join Alex Usher on the World of Higher Education Podcast as he delves into the future of Canadian higher education amidst economic shifts with guest John Stackhouse, Senior Vice President at the Royal Bank of Canada. The discussion focuses on the necessity for post-secondary education reform, the vital role of human capital, and how universities can better align with evolving labor market needs. Learn about the complexities facing the sector, from outdated budget models to the integration of research and development, and the imperative steps needed to create a more resilient and innovative higher education system in Canada. 👉 Episode Links:  RBC Thought LeadershipReport: A Smarter Path: The case for postsecondary education reformPlease note, the views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors, and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team, or our sponsors. This episode is sponsored by KnowMeQ. ArchieCPL is the first AI-enabled tool that massively streamlines credit for prior learning evaluation. Toronto based KnowMeQ makes ethical AI tools that boost and bottom line, achieving new efficiencies in higher ed and workforce upskilling.

    27 min
  7. Lean, Global, and Tuition-Free: The University of the People Model

    MAY 1

    Lean, Global, and Tuition-Free: The University of the People Model

    Join host Alex Usher in the World of Higher Education Podcast as he interviews Shai Reshef, Founder and President of University of the People. Discover how this online institution serves 150,000 students across 209 countries with a tuition-free model. Learn the economics behind running a mega online university, the role of technology and volunteers, and how they achieve quality education at a fraction of the cost of traditional universities. Listen in as Reshef shares insights about their unique admission process, accreditation challenges, and the future of higher education. 👉 Episode Links:  University of the PeoplePlease note, the views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors, and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team, or our sponsors. This episode is sponsored by KnowMeQ. ArchieCPL is the first AI-enabled tool that massively streamlines credit for prior learning evaluation. Toronto based KnowMeQ makes ethical AI tools that boost and bottom line, achieving new efficiencies in higher ed and workforce upskilling.

    26 min
  8. Overskilled and Underused? What PIAAC Reveals About the Canadian Workforce

    APR 24

    Overskilled and Underused? What PIAAC Reveals About the Canadian Workforce

    In this episode of the World of Higher Education Podcast, host Alex Usher delves into a discussion about the Program for International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC) with guest Noel Baldwin, Executive Director of Canada's Future Skills Centre. Baldwin explains the scope and purpose of PIAAC, compares it to PISA, and delves into its implications on policies, particularly how governments utilize the data. Key topics include global declines in adult literacy, factors affecting these trends, the use of skills data in Canada, and the future of PIAAC. The episode also touches on the potential impact on workforce skills, literacy strategies, and the changing landscape of policy-making based on hard data.  👉 Episode Links:  Survey of Adult Skills (PIAAC)Future Skills CentrePlease note, the views and opinions expressed in each episode are those of the individual contributors, and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast host and team, or our sponsors. This episode is sponsored by Studiosity. Student success, at scale - with an evidence-based ROI of 4.4x return for universities and colleges. Because Studiosity is AI for Learning — not corrections - to develop critical thinking, agency, and retention — empowering educators with learning insight. For future-ready graduates — and for future-ready institutions. Learn more at studiosity.com.

    25 min
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About

The World of Higher Education is dedicated to exploring developments in higher education from a global perspective. Join host, Alex Usher of Higher Education Strategy Associates, as he speaks with new guests each week from different countries discussing developments in their regions. Produced by Tiffany MacLennan and Samantha Pufek.

Information

  • Creator
    Higher Education Strategy Associates
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    87
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Higher Education Strategy Associates
  • Show Website
    The World of Higher Education

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