Panel Discussion 2

There is no doubt that the COVID-19 Pandemic has brought a lot of uncertainty and changes to the higher education sector that could be long-lasting. Some predict that the “new normal” will involve the emergence of new business models for the sector, wider investment in online learning and a greater adoption of micro- credentials and other alternative higher education models. Pedagogy is projected to be more blended than ever, as more institutions are considering using a blend of in-person and online classes. The sector also anticipates a decline in student enrollment, student mobility and revenues/ funding. Remote working and new faculty recruitment models may emerge. Big data may become more crucial than ever to deliver a personalized student centric learning experience. We may also witness more collaboration both among and across the sector along stronger ties with key stakeholders; as such we may witness the raise of more incubators, accelerators and research collaboration.

All of this means that the higher education sector will need to establish strategies and build the necessary capacity to sustain and enhance teaching, research, and public service in light of these new parameters. Universities and Colleges will have no choice but to reassess and redefine their value proposition. New business models may need to be considered and resources would probably need to be allocated differently than how they were in the past.

The panel aims at:

1. Discussing the top predictions for the higher education sector on the long term and consider how they will disrupt the sector
2. Addressing the key areas institutions should consider when planning both the near and far future
3. Highlighting strategies institutions have adopted to navigate through the “new normal”
4. Identifying views on how institutions can re-invent themselves and build resilience