Higher education in turbulent times: A geographical perspective

Abstract: Two major trends pose unprecedented challenges to higher education. A backlash against globalisation has fuelled protectionism, nativism, and inward-looking national politics. And confidence in higher education institutions is declining. Research universities are uniquely able to address both challenges if they embrace new strategic directions, globally and locally. They must leverage their global networks and foster research collaboration to overcome parochialism and address grand challenges. They must commit to strengthening their local communities or urban regions and ensure access for students from the widest range of socio-economic backgrounds. These strategies will better position universities to secure the broad public support they need to thrive.

Keywords: university, globalisation, research, community, urban, socio-economic, public, access, geography.

Lecture in Geography, read 5 June 2018