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A couple of hours ago, we wrapped up the Online Learning Summit 2025 in Leeds. It was an incredible two days, packed with knowledge and insights. I’m exhausted but also invigorated, with so many ideas buzzing through my head.
Even though I’m in Yorkshire, I’m celebrating with things that have the word "Scotch" in their names. In this case a Scotch egg I enjoyed at a pub here in Leeds.
What did I read in the stolen minutes in between sessions?
A rare moment of agreement
PA Consulting has published a new report based on their latest survey of UK university Vice Chancellors, and it offers support for what many of us felt at the conference: we are entering a period of unprecedented challenges.
Back in 2023, they surveyed university leaders and found that 90% agreed the combined level of threats and uncertainties was unlike anything higher education had ever faced. This year, in response to the same question, that percentage has edged even higher.
The Vice Chancellors pointed to the following as the main sources of challenge.
• Geopolitical trends reducing international mobility
• Advances in AI and digital challenging established operating models
• Government and employers prioritising skills and employability over degrees, increasing demands for work-related provision including apprenticeships
• Future government funding made dependent on radical system reforms
Yet somehow, only 93% of Vice Chancellors believe the sector needs to embrace fundamental reforms in order to survive. The report doesn’t make it clear how the remaining 7% think higher education will make it through. But one Vice Chancellor hints at part of the problem by paraphrasing Gramsci.
Our old world is dead, while the new world refuses to be born
