The World of Higher Education

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 [https://www.knowmeq.com/]. 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.

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 [https://www.knowmeq.com/]. 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.

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 Zealand [https://worlded.transistor.fm/episodes/2-16-the-failed-fees-free-policy-in-new-zealand] 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 [https://www.knowmeq.com/]. 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.

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 [https://www.knowmeq.com/]. 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.

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 Leadership [https://thoughtleadership.rbc.com/] * Report: A Smarter Path: The case for postsecondary education reform [https://thoughtleadership.rbc.com/a-smarter-path-the-case-for-postsecondary-education-reform/#:~:text=In%20this%20report%2C%20we%20identify,to%20sharpening%20Canada's%20competitive%20edge.] 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 [https://www.knowmeq.com/]. 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.