Borrowing a question Stanford’s Rob Reich puts to founders, Jack turns it toward universities. Who is deciding which tools reach students, on what evidence, and in whose interest? He sets out what deep reading builds in the brain and why it sits beneath critical thinking, what the research says about cognitive offloading and “cognitive surrender”, why there is no AI literacy without literacy, and what students themselves are saying. He closes with a pathway for leaders: choose technology on evidence from cognitive science, teach responsible use, and validate learning without surveillance that assumes guilt.

Referenced: Maryanne Wolf, Reader, Come Home; Rob Reich, Mehran Sahami and Jeremy Weinstein, System Error; Jill Lepore; Anastasia Berg; Kevin Kruse; Sal Khan; E.H. Carr, What is History; the 2026 PISA results.

Reimagining the Future of Higher Education is Studiosity’s podcast with leaders across universities and colleges in Australia, the UK, North America, the Middle East and South East Asia.

This episode explores why Monash University choose to move away from its traditional Reconciliation Action Plan in favour of a bespoke Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander framework. Together they also ask what exactly is "colonial load," and how does it manifest in university libraries and boardrooms? And what fundamental shifts are required to finally see an Indigenous Vice-Chancellor at the helm of an Australian university within the next five years?

Whether you are a university leader, a student, or an advocate for institutional change, Prof Kennedy's insights on structural representation, as highlighted by his creation of the Monash Indigenous Congress, offer a powerful roadmap for normalising diverse perspectives at the highest levels of university leadership. Nothing About Us, Without Us by Tristan Kennedy is published by Monash University Publishing as part of their In the National Interest essay series. 

They discuss the urgent need to evaluate universities and colleges by civic impact and social mobility rather than post-graduation earnings alone, while identifying policy unpredictability as today's top senior leadership challenge. Warning against the "deceptive easiness" of AI and consequential “watering down” of degree value, Ted explains why faculty must bring the intellectual struggle back into learning by pushing students to interrogate what is wrong with their own arguments.

Key Topics Covered:

• Scaling Work Integrated Learning (WIL): Lessons from Swinburne's universal WIL model and Newcastle's compulsory career-ready placements.

• Enduring capabilities vs. transient skills: Why adaptive expertise, creativity, curiosity, and good citizenship matter more than short-term technical tool mastery.

• AI in curriculum & pedagogy: How technology can transform WIL, and why educator capability is the critical first step.

• The student voice on AI: Why teaching critical thinking, reasoning, and human connection is essential when integrating AI tools into study and practice.

Your panel:

• Prof Judyth Sachs – Chief Academic Officer, Studiosity (Chair)

• Prof Steven Warburton – Pro Vice-Chancellor Education Innovation, University of Newcastle

• Prof Ruth Bridgstock – Professor of Education Transformation - Capabilities, Swinburne University of Technology

• Prof Sherman Young – Deputy Vice-Chancellor Education, RMIT University

• Sophia Bell, 5th year law student, University of Newcastle

Reflecting on his journey which he likens to a ‘skipping stone’, and recent American Chamber of Commerce “Icon of Excellence” Award, Jun shares grounded leadership advice for navigating radical disruption: do away with perfectionism, stay curious, and learn continuously.

Encouraging a shift toward evaluation that considers the students learning process, Prof El Kadi says "We can no longer assess students the way we have been" and highlights early ethics education over punitive surveillance, reminding leaders "We are educators, we are not policemen". In a time when information is available instantly, this conversation serves as a reminder for universities to come back to their core mission: guiding student learning while nurturing irreplaceable interpersonal skills and human connections.

Drawing on decades of leadership, Dr. Dirks discusses key pressures reshaping the sector: rising tuition that has outpaced demonstrated value; the squeeze on humanities and liberal arts, even as Nick argues AI makes critical thinking and ethical reasoning more essential; and a culture of credentialism that discourages curiosity well before students reach university. As he reflects, institutions never set out to build "a Maserati or a Bentley" and yet that’s what has happened. A valuable listen for leaders rethinking their university's future.

Seeing AI as a transformation engine, H.E. Dr. Alawar shares his forward-thinking vision, urging senior leaders to rethink their institution’s value proposition, assessment methods, and operational structures in an era where knowledge is abundant, accessible, and rapidly changing. Hear how HBMSU puts this into practice with continuous assessment that evaluates the students' learning process - through early drafts, reasoning, and decision-making - not just the final product.

In this latest episode, Professor Ciarán Ó Catháin, Chief Executive Officer of Bahrain Polytechnic, joins host Dr. Ashraf Mahate to explore how universities can uphold academic integrity and degree value through critical thinking, responsible AI integration, and strong industry partnerships. Highlighting his "3 Cs" framework, Prof. Ó Catháin details a practical model for linking education with industry, giving graduates both the immediate job-ready skills and long-term career adaptability to thrive.

• Strategies for maintaining academic credibility by evaluating the incremental process of learning rather than relying solely on final assignment submissions.

• The evolution of higher education from traditional lecture models toward interactive, evidence-based learning journeys in the age of generative AI.

• Abu Dhabi University’s structured AI initiatives, including faculty AI certification, graduate attribute tracking, and personalized support for at-risk students.

• Why physical campuses, human mentorship, and real-world industry collaboration remain irreplaceable in developing human capability.

They discuss:

• Building systems for students: Dr. Lowery-Hart assumed student dropouts were driven by pedagogical gaps. Listening to students revealed the real hurdles occurred outside the classroom.

• Frontline empowerment: In a complex system that defaults to telling stakeholders “no”, ACC intentionally redesigned its operations to enable frontline staff to fix broken processes without needing multi-layered approvals.

• Scaling human interaction, not automation: ACC is embracing AI to provide a more responsive, personalized learning environment that enhances proactive outreach and human connection the moment a student begins to struggle.

They discuss:

• The importance of agile, clear AI strategy in curriculum design to embed the right tools that enhance learning without sacrificing foundational skills.

• Finding new ways for graduates to build real-world experience as technology automates entry-level tasks and junior roles.

• How universities can pivot to foster what AI can't replace: human connection, social intelligence, and lifelong learning.

They discuss:

• The challenge faced by university leaders to avoid managing defensively, during budget cuts.

• How ACU balances a nationwide presence with tight-knit, local community campuses to secure #1 for employer satisfaction and #2 for student experience (QILT ESS & SES surveys, 2025).

• Prof Skrbis encourages leaders to intentionally prioritise human relationships over technology automation, as the value of a university degree shifts from what a student knows to how they relate, reflect, and connect.

Prof Bassam shared how his own formative journey and struggles - including growing up during the Lebanese civil war - taught him resilience and humility, traits that now drive his forward-thinking approach to leadership.

They discuss: 

• How universities must prioritize teaching the human inflection points that machines can't replicate: critical thinking, curiosity, humility, empathy, and teamwork.

• AURAK was the first university in the UAE to offer a Bachelors degree in AI. Instead of hiding from technology or acting like police, educators must lean into transparency and teach students to use AI critically and responsibly.

• Creating employers, not only employees, with interdisciplinary projects combining engineering, business, and mass media. AURAK's goal is fostering a true entrepreneurial spirit so graduates build businesses and strive for impact, rather than just apply for jobs.

Prof Bassam explores how education is no longer about sitting in rows and absorbing passive lectures. It’s about agility, experiential learning, and lifelong adaptability.

• Rethinking academic integrity: Moving away from detection, faculty are finding new ways to validate learning, such as utilising forums and essays to identify signs of their student's unique voice in their writing.

• Growing belonging: Students created immersive “digital twins” of UPOU’s physical campuses to create a sense of belonging for their fellow online learners.

• Collaboration over competition: As more universities move online, UPOU is leaning into a mentoring role, to improve access and the quality of online education across the Philippines.

Chaired by UNSW's Deputy Vice Chancellor Indigenous, Prof Leanne Holt, we listen to the powerful wisdom and heard stories of the academic journeys of four incredible First Nations students: Siena, Tasya, Lachlan, and Jaiden.

Shifting away from a deficit mindset, these future leaders in medicine, law, and corporate marketing share positive, constructive insights on how universities can evolve past standard compliance and foster truly empowering experiences. Listen in to explore how building relational, wanted campus communities, expanding postgraduate research pathways, and decolonising knowledge systems can foster an environment where every student is set up to achieve extraordinary things.

Drawing on his diverse background as a nurse, teacher, and Fulbright Schola, Prof Donovan discusses moving beyond trying to 'crowbar' Indigenous content into the curriculum, advocating instead for a relational pedagogy that aligns Indigenous understandings with core disciplinary concepts. The conversation highlights the importance of authentic Indigenous governance and the necessity of "walking the walk" - from executive-level decision-making to building deep, listening-based relationships with community elders. 

Through his personal reflections on reconciliation, Prof Donovan offers a roadmap for institutional change that puts shared growth at its heart. 

They dive into:

• Shifting demographics: How WGU is adapting now that 40% of its incoming online students are younger learners with limited career experience.

• Fostering community: Building belonging in a digital space through scaled peer cohorts and a specialized faculty framework.

• Leadership lessons: Courtney's insights as a former All-American soccer player and how she strategically manages her academic team's diverse strengths.

This session explores the intersection of generative AI and student mental health in the higher education sector. Featuring a diverse panel of academic leaders from Australia and Malaysia, and a student representative, the session addresses the "confidence gap" in AI learning, the transition from punitive to learning-first integrity frameworks, and the importance of fostering a sense of belonging through human connection. The discussion offers practical insights into how institutions can move beyond the policing of AI to create a culture of trust and uphold critical thinking.

Panelists:

• Prof Adeeba Kamarulzaman, President and Pro Vice-Chancellor (PVC) of Monash University Malaysia.
• Megan Pozzi SFHEA, Director (Student Life), Uni Southern QLD
• Dr Georgina Maddox, teaching specialist in psychology at Flinders University
• Ivana Pedruco Aniceto, 3rd year law student from University of Newcastle
• and chaired by Prof Judyth Sachs, Chief Academic Officer at Studiosity.

studiosity.com/studentsfirst 

This first episode in the 2026 series features a conversation between Judyth and Prof Leanne Holt, the Deputy Vice Chancellor Indigenous at the University of New South Wales (UNSW).

They discuss:

• Prof Holt's remarkable journey from leaving school in year 11 to leading Indigenous strategy at one of Australia’s top universities, and her personal insights on overcoming 'imposter syndrome'
• The importance of systemic institutional change over temporary programs, and how UNSW is centering Indigenous knowledge within its broader societal impact goals.
• Redefining reconciliation as voice, agency, and action - a compelling look at how universities can go beyond internal targets to create genuine community agency and lasting societal change.

• Preparing students for a world with AI, and the challenges for universities in revising curriculum, training faculty, and establishing ethical guidelines.

• How AUBH are incorporating collaboration across disciplines to mirror real-world challenges.

• Dr. Wafa shares her thoughts on the mixed messages higher education sometimes sends to students: when their final grade dictates their opportunities more than the learning journey itself. This can leave students confused about what truly matters.

In an era demanding both efficiency and personalized learning, GSU sought a student support solution that could scale effectively across their diverse student body. A micro-pilot took place in Spring 2025, offering Studiosity to 100 students, and was expanded for the Fall to 1,000 students across multiple programs and disciplines. GSU strategically adopted Studiosity's AI-powered writing feedback tool and foundational skills support to determine efficacy and impact.

Featuring:

• Dr. Timothy M. Renick, Executive Director, National Institute for Student Success
• Dr. Kathryn Crowther, Director of Teaching Effectiveness & Learning Design in the Center for Teaching, Learning, and Online Education at Georgia State University

• The mindset shift and practices needed to "meet students where they are"
• Reimagining the role of faculty and leveraging AI for efficiencies in grading and feedback
• Fluidity and flexibility to enable accessible, enjoyable learning experiences.

Your panelists:

• Amy Williams, Executive Director at the National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships

• John Fink, Senior Research Associate and Program Lead, Community College Research Center, Teachers College, Columbia University

• Christopher Todd, Executive Director of the Office of Early College Programs, University of Connecticut

This session is moderated by Goldie Blumenstyk, veteran reporter for The Chronicle of Higher Education and now Senior Fellow at Studiosity.

The two leaders reflect on how far higher education has strayed from its core mission of enabling students to think deeply and critically, and to demonstrate those skills authentically, and Dr. Jona gives advice to senior leaders looking to successfully pivot towards industry-aligned learning in 2026. Listen in now.

Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Clare Pollock’s leadership is defined by her unwavering commitment to student success and equity. In this conversation, she speaks with Professor Judyth Sachs about her strong advocacy for keeping students at the centre of the university experience, which she has carried through roles at different institutions.

Now leading Edith Cowan University, Prof Pollock shares insights into how the university is rethinking the future of education - including leveraging AI to transform its curriculum towards programmatic learning and assessment, to support authentic learning and prepare graduates for whatever comes next.

Prof. Kong reflects on her own undergraduate experience and how it shaped her focus as a leader - from introducing interdisciplinary curriculum that exposes students to the “big questions”, to cultivating interpersonal and intrapersonal skills so that students remain “more human” and can adapt in a rapidly changing world. Don’t miss this invigorating conversation with a truly visionary leader, committed to transforming the educational experience for every student at SMU.

Dr. Beeby recounts his personal and professional journey, from first-generation college student from a small village in England, to leading a selective regional public university in the United States. He champions the transformative power of higher education and discusses his vision for the future, emphasizing greater responsiveness to community needs, providing affordable access, and preparing students for success. James offers advice to current students, noting the value of kindness, continuous learning, and lifting others as you climb.

This high-stakes conversation is hosted by Professor Judyth Sachs (Chief Academic Officer, Studiosity, and former Provost, Macquarie University), and Judyth is joined by:

• Dr. Noreen Golfman (Studiosity Academic Advisory Board Member, and former Provost, Memorial University): Detailing the rise of government interference, budget cuts, and the imperative for institutions to shed the "bloated" clichés.

• Goldie Blumenstyk (Friend to Studiosity, and former 36-year journalist, The Chronicle of Higher Education): Sharing her unparalleled insights on the economic contraction and the current reshaping of the American academy.

• Encouraging students to learn through failure and discovery, rather than memorisation, recalling an early project failure and being told "If you're not failing, you're not pushing boundaries".

• Equipping students for future jobs, not disappearing ones, and why any university not integrating industry into its programs is doing its students and community a disservice.

• Transforming learning to remove rigid silos and enable students to gain diverse experiences to be agile for future multidisciplinary challenges.

They also discussed New Zealand's unique position in the international education market compared to other countries and the importance of aligning international student programs with the country's workforce needs.

Your panel:

• Prof Damon Salesa, Vice Chancellor, Auckland University of Technology (AUT)
• Prof Jennifer Milam, Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic, University of Waikato
• Christopher Carey, Executive Director, Global Engagement at Massey University
• Stephanie Milam, International student

And Chaired by Prof Judyth Sachs, Chief Academic Officer at Studiosity.

Today, Sunway Education Group prepares students for an uncertain future by nurturing resilience, curiosity, and a sense of civic responsibility, while actively exploring ways to adapt AI technology tools into teaching and learning.

Your panel:

• Lee Griffin, Academic Director (Postgraduate Taught), University of Warwick
• Dr Marzia Coltri, PhD, GUS Fellow and Lecturer at Arden University, Academic Associate (Professor Extraordinarius) at UNISA
• Dr Shiva Sivasubramaniam, Deputy Dean, University of Roehampton
• Dr Mary-Claire Kennedy, Academic Integrity Lead, University of Limerick, Chair of the National Academic Integrity Network (Ireland)

• Preparing students for a world with AI, and the challenges for universities in revising curriculum, training faculty, and establishing ethical guidelines.

• How AUBH are incorporating collaboration across disciplines to mirror real-world challenges.

• Dr. Wafa shares her thoughts on the mixed messages higher education sometimes sends to students: when their final grade dictates their opportunities more than the learning journey itself. This can leave students confused about what truly matters.

• How are educators adapting teaching to keep students engaged and at the centre of the learning process?

• How can higher education connect more effectively with industry and community in the UAE, to ensure students are employable and feel more certain about their futures?

• Universities like Manipal are rethinking assessment - how do they evaluate the way students are learning in the age of AI?

Listen in to hear these discussed in depth, plus more.

Prof Judyth Sachs had the chance to sit down with Professor Wang and discuss not just the success of this initiative, but also the key challenges facing students in Taiwan, and how the university can build their confidence and self-determination, to set them up for the future.

In this third interview of the series, Prof Sachs speaks with her former colleague and current friend, Prof Jennifer Barrett, discussing her role as the interim Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Indigenous Strategy and Services, as well as the PVC Indigenous (Academic) at the University of Sydney.

Prof Barrett shares her thoughts on the importance of education, research, and student inclusion in the university's reconciliation efforts, as well as the need for strong Indigenous leadership. She outlines the university's plans to celebrate NAIDOC Week, including a new NAIDOC Ball organised by students.

Prof Barrett also emphasises the interdisciplinary and cross-cutting nature of 'reconciliation' as it occurs within higher education, and the challenges of driving change within the university's structures, silos, and disciplines.

Your panel:

• Prof Catherine Moran, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic, University of Canterbury
• Prof Naomi Cogger, Strategic Lead - GenAI Engagement, Massey University
• Prof Martin Carroll, Deputy Chief Executive Academic, Manukau Institute of Technology and Unitec
• Luc MacKay, President, University of Canterbury Student Association (UCSA)

And Chaired by Prof Judyth Sachs, former PVC Learning and Teaching at The University of Sydney, Deputy Vice Chancellor and Provost at Macquarie University, and now Chief Academic Officer at Studiosity.

They discuss:

• Dr. Long's experiences studying abroad and establishing a university in Iraq, and the impact these have had on his leadership approach and educational philosophy
• AUD's commitment to student success, and plans to integrate adaptive learning technologies into teaching, while preserving the value of critical thinking and human discussion

• The challenges of leading an established institution while embracing innovation and change in this digital age. 

This second interview of the series is with the delightful Charlene Davison, CEO of the GO Foundation. Charlene discusses her own career journey, the history and mission of the GO Foundation in providing education scholarships and support to Indigenous students, and her views on the importance of reconciliation in Australia.

She emphasises the need for truth-telling, respect, trust, and empathy in the reconciliation process, and the responsibility of all organisations to engage with reconciliation. Charlene also highlights the role of Indigenous-led organisations in driving reconciliation efforts at the community, state, and national levels.

Chaired by Professor Judyth Sachs, former PVC Learning and Teaching at The University of Sydney, Deputy Vice Chancellor and Provost at Macquarie University, and now Chief Academic Officer at Studiosity.

Your panel:

• Professor Sally Kift, President of the Australian Learning and Teaching Fellows (ALTF), Adjunct Professor JCU, La Trobe, QUT
• Professor Ryan Naylor, Professor of Higher Education , the University of Sydney
• Sarah Bendall, First Assistant Ombudsman, National Student Ombudsman (NSO)

Watch the recording on video here: https://vimeo.com/1084234254?share=copy. 

As a leader, Dr. Zia has focused on enabling and facilitating universities through policy interventions, and expanding access and equity in higher education, particularly for marginalised communities and female students. Listen in to hear Dr. Zia discuss the truly transformative power of higher education in driving societal and economic progress in Pakistan, and the importance of embracing AI technology and collaboration to achieve this vision.

First up: Nathan Towney, Deputy Vice Chancellor Equity and Engagement at the University of Newcastle, discusses his career journey, and his four-pillar approach to driving an Indigenous strategy across the university:

• Building cultural knowledge and understanding through curriculum, staff development, and community engagement
• Increasing participation and retention of Indigenous students and staff
• Ensuring Indigenous-led research and community involvement
• Aligning the university's Reconciliation Action Plan across all areas

Nathan emphasises the importance of building strong relationships and modelling the desired behaviours to achieve collective impact, rather than focusing solely on the term "reconciliation".

Also discussed in this chat:

• How WSU is improving the student experience, addressing issues like food insecurity, and using data and partnerships to better support student retention

• The need to rethink teaching models and delivery to better serve the evolving needs of a diverse student population and Western Sydney region

• Optimism about the future: Prof Williams' hope for positive changes in government policy to support students.

• The importance of accessible, affordable education and the deep commitment Sue has to supporting students, particularly those from underserved backgrounds

• Insights on the future of higher ed, advocating for more flexible, stackable credentials, closer partnerships with business, and the integration of AI technologies across disciplines

• The value of embracing failure, leaning into fear, and leading by example, drawing from her own experiences as a lifelong learner and leader.

Together they discuss:

• Challenges and opportunities of transitioning from faculty to university leadership

• Facilitating work-integrated learning, and leveraging AI technology to enhance the student experience and prepare graduates

• The need for universities to be more responsive to societal changes, while preserving the core values that are integral to higher education.

Neil shares the challenges of leading a university today, particularly adapting to AI technology and its impact on assessment and learning; how the University of Waikato is integrating different cultural perspectives, emphasising support for learner success, and ensuring every graduate is prepared with work-integrated learning; and how learning new languages - Vietnamese and Te reo Māori - improved his listening skills and shaped his leadership journey.

In this episode:

• As the first Pasifika Vice-Chancellor in New Zealand, Damon shares his perspective on the responsibilities that come with this, and the need to consider the broader societal implications of such milestones.

• The increasing need for universities to provide a place of social cohesion and connectedness, for growing and supporting the development of well-rounded citizens capable of engaging with complex, contested ideas.

• Equipping students with the essential skills for university success, including self-awareness and becoming self-directed learners, and the strong commitment AUT has to educational opportunity and student support.

Also in this episode:

• A biologist at heart, Deborah shares how her desire to enact change drove the decision to move into leadership
• Why we need to consider the environmental impact and broader implications of AI in education, beyond just the technological capabilities
• Enabling more personalized faculty-student connection, which Deborah sees as critical to the university experience.

Discussed in this episode: 

• Balancing theoretical and practical education, with a focus on developing students' real-world skills, critical thinking, and ability to learn from failure
• Rooijen's collaborative leadership style, involving asking the right questions and encouraging faculty to arrive at solutions themselves
• Incorporating AI into university operations and teaching, emphasising the importance for both educators and students to critically engage with new technologies.

Also discussed:

• Evolving expectations of students in the UAE, particularly their desire for entrepreneurial opportunities and engagement with sustainability initiatives.

• Adapting to, and advocating for, AI technologies while maintaining the core values of education, ethics, and learning.

• The value of a well-rounded education, and AUS' commitment to a liberal arts core, preparing students to tackle complex, interdisciplinary challenges in their future careers.

Freddy shares his experience as an international student, where he learned the importance of adaptability and building relationships, which shaped his personal philosophy on the critical role universities play in students' lives, beyond lectures and exams.

Listen in to hear the two professors discuss:

• Key factors enabling the transformation of universities in Singapore to sit amongst the top ranked in the world

• Cultivating curiosity and critical thinking in students

• Enhancing the CityU student experience through student exchange, developing entrepreneurship, and leveraging emerging technologies.

• The vital role of higher education in cultivating civic engagement,

• Students' moral reasoning and critical thinking in this social, political, and technological landscape,

• The changing nature of knowledge acquisition and adapting curricula and teaching to better prepare students for the future.

From USU’s very “happy campus” in the mountains, join Betsy as she speaks with Judyth this week. A must-listen episode for leadership and educators invested in learner success - in a rapidly changing HE environment.

Interviewed by Dr Ashraf Mahate, the two educators discuss the university's initiatives to support students with disabilities, including the award-winning Space for Students with Disabilities, and its efforts to democratise access to AI and coding. Professor Kerkeb emphasises the university's holistic approach to education, focusing on developing well-rounded individuals who can positively contribute to society. Listen in to hear Prof Kerkeb's vision for creating an inclusive, technologically-advanced, and socially-engaged university that prepares students for the challenges of the future.

Find out more about the THE Awards Arab World here: https://theawardsarabworld.com/2024/en/page/home 

They discuss:

• Working alongside remarkable women leaders, Jacinda Ardern and Helen Clark, and lessons learned on intellect, compassion, and leadership
• The importance of universities in addressing global challenges and the need to make them relevant and useful to governments
• Observations on the changing student experience, notably the increased pressure and purpose-driven nature of today's students, and the desire to provide students with time to think, absorb, and explore
• The role of universities in critically engaging with emerging technologies like AI, and Grant’s vision for nurturing well-rounded, socially conscious graduates

• Studying as an international student, cultural immersion, and self discipline

• Shifting to transdisciplinary collaboration between academia, industry, and the community in an effort to address global challenges

• HKBU’s approach to incorporating AI: emphasising empowerment, critical thinking, ethical use, and preserving human creativity

• The importance of communication and co-creation with students, and maintaining a curious mindset in the rapidly changing higher education landscape.

Prof Duncan Bentley, Vice-Chancellor and President at Federation University and Prof Judyth Sachs reflect on the accidental events that have shaped Duncan's ‘unorthodox’ career path.

They discuss the purpose of regional universities and responding to local contexts; integrating work and university and bringing critical thinking into the workplace; facilitating students' learning journeys beyond study; peer support as the glue that binds students to university; and insights into how the sector can innovate to meet future needs of students and society. 

They discuss Scott’s early years and why university was never on his radar; how Scott came to keep a Jiminy Cricket in his office; importance of authenticity for students and aspiring senior leaders; how engagement helped to transform CQU; and Scott's advice to anyone working in a university right now.

They discuss:

• Designing learning to empower educators and students to be active participants

• Advocating for a more collaborative approach to teaching, where educators share and build upon pedagogical ideas

• The importance of curiosity and student agency with emerging digital tools.

Listen in as they discuss:

• Journalism, financial markets, and entering academia later in life - how education has been Heather’s passport to each opportunity
• Aspiring to accomplish things you don’t succeed with straight away
• Why bespoke learning journeys are the future of education
• Articulating your purpose in uncertain times and Heather’s personal impact statement.

• Systemic change to redesign institutions around student success

• UIA’s focus on setting the conditions for change, via evidence-based work that brings community, inspiration, and purpose

• Morale, motivation, and respecting people and their ability to advance change

• Data as the “North Star” for student success

• And a "magic wand" wish for the sector.

They discuss the hallmarks of a great student experience, notably research-informed teaching and small classes; the impact of sisterhood and formative experiences that shaped Sally’s career; rebalancing the relationship between individual and government funding of the sector; and Sally brings along a cherished book collection, highlighting the ever-evolving experience of learners.

The two professors discuss:

• Pal’s experiences - culturally, politically, practically - living, learning, and working across Africa, Canada, UK, Australia, and the Pacific

• Rethinking delivery of the student experience, with flexibility key for Pasifika students

• The impact of depopulation on campus life and the future of quality education

• Pal's observations on Australia's changing higher ed landscape, multiculturalism, and optimism

• How USP is helping students embrace AI with ethics, to be career-ready.

Student wellbeing is top-of-mind going into the new school year, accelerated by the rise of AI and the increased isolation of students due to technology and online learning.

Join Dr. Ainsley Carry, Dr. Anne Duffy, and Dr. Andrea Levinson in this open symposium session to explore crucial topics including student support; work, life, and school balance; as well as social connectedness.

What’s in this episode?

• The power of philosophy: Discover the life-changing skills Gabriel gained from his studies and how they apply to today’s educational landscape.

• The student experience: Is the ‘essence’ of being a student fading? What do today’s learners need?

• Accessibility for all: Explore the importance of keeping higher education open to everyone.

• Public support: How can we rally support for universities and their missions?

• HE Canada’s educational triumphs: Gabriel reflects on Canadian HigherEd successes - and what lies ahead.

They discuss the birth of the Silicon Oasis; bridging education and industry to create future-ready students; developing unique programs linking community challenges with student solutions; teaching ethics alongside AI; and Yousef uses his 'filter of wisdom' to evaluate university rankings.

The two professors discuss the adaptability of universities and whether they can ever really be relevant to industry; domains of knowledge vs disciplines and why young people are specialising too early; the challenges for research due to AI and technology; and Prof Parker gives his advice to non-academic leaders coming in to the sector.

Note: at the time of recording Prof Parker had not yet announced his interim role at UC.

In this unique Symposium, renowned Indigenous leadership discussed the national pursuit of equity of access and success in higher education - exploring this year’s Universities Accord and how it could lead to meaningful change, and enhanced support for Indigenous students in Australian higher education.

Your panel:

• Adam Goodes, Co-Founder of the GO Foundation 
• Prof Braden Hill, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Students, Equity, and Indigenous at Edith Cowan University
• Sarah Scott, Bachelor of Social Work (Honours) and Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice student at UNSW

and Chaired by Mark Heiss, Deputy CEO at the GO Foundation. Prof Leanne Holt, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous at UNSW was sadly unable to join due to illness. Watch the video recording here: https://vimeo.com/1017494376?share=copy 

They reflect on the telegram that opened up a world of opportunity for Rebecca; the joy of learning and inquisitiveness; social mobility and leading universities that prioritise widening participation; being ambitious for yourself and others; and the value of a university degree today.

They discuss Prof Aouad’s experience as a student during the Civil War in Lebanon; fostering tolerance and inclusivity in diverse student populations; how emotional intelligence and cultural awareness is setting ADU graduates apart; and the critical role universities have to educate students, staff, and the community about ethics and integrity, in the age of AI.

Sir Anton shares what it was like to grow up in The Netherlands, Italy, and the UK, and reflects on where it all began by sharing the set of books that sparked his interest in economics.

Together they discuss how Auckland is preparing students with future skills via curriculum transformation; the purpose of universities in an era of unprecedented misinformation; and what long-distance running has taught Dawn about leadership, particularly pacing oneself.