The future is not a straight line from the past. As universities and colleges come to terms with some new realities – operational, financial, logistical, ethical – what does their future look like? What needs to change? What will change?

The Challenge

COVID-19 has been a game changer for governments, universities and colleges. They now need to imagine a different future – one with fewer international students, less money, more flexible and different approaches to learning, new competitors and new approaches to credentials, skills and competencies.

Governments and employers are also looking towards colleges and universities to respond to urgent needs to upskill and reskill the workforce, many of whom are deeply impacted by changes in the employment landscape. Whole sectors – hospitality and tourism, airlines, retail – have been massively impacted.

Already, some universities and colleges around the world have closed. Others are reducing programs and services and more changes are on the horizon. In Canada, some governments are investing in post-secondary education while others are making dramatic reductions in funding. All governments are exploring new approaches to apprenticeship and skills. What is on the horizon in terms of policy, funding and expectations?

This presentation will build on recent contributions to the work on strategic foresight related to post-secondary education and the place of technology in the future of learning.

Key Takeaways

As a result of this presentation, you will better understand:

• The social, economic and political challenges facing colleges, universities and training organizations in Canada.
• The five big challenges colleges and universities face as we begin to imaging a post-pandemic world.
• The ten dominant change features of post-secondary education post-pandemic.
• The three imperatives for a different future which are required from policy makers and institutional leaders.