Ashwin, P. (2020). Transforming University Education – A Manifesto. London: Bloomsbury.
Ashwin wants us to be reminded of why higher education, especially university education, exists. Colleges and universities are fundamentally about transforming people into smart citizens able to make judgements, understand basic science, math and how the world works. In combatting ignorance, fake news and the relentless search for job-ready skills, higher education needs to be reminded that purpose is to help young people find meaning, purpose and compassion. While heavily focused on undergraduate learning, Ashwin wants us to focus on building informed, engaged and active citizens who understand the idea of “community” and act accordingly. The book is a refreshing antidote to the neo-liberal agenda found in so many policy documents from governments around the world.
