Higher Education as a Catalyst for Opportunity and Growth
A deep dive into how the higher education sector can shape a future narrative on the contribution it makes to economic and societal progress was the focus of a seminar held in March at Ruskin College, Oxford, part of the University of West London Group.
Higher Education as a Catalyst for Opportunity and Growth, a seminar delivered by the Ruskin Institute for Social Equity (RISE) in partnership with the Purpose Coalition, was part of a lecture series held to mark Ruskin College’s 125th Anniversary, featuring prominent thinkers and policymakers who focused on the future of capitalism, inequality, education and skills. A home for progressive thought and ideas for more than a century, the College has been providing routes into higher education for students from disadvantaged backgrounds since the 19th century.
The seminar brought together leaders from higher education and business to consider how the sector can better understand, develop and communicate the wider economic benefits of extending access to higher education. It discussed the ways in which it can partner with business to showcase positive outcomes. It also considered whether current Access and Participation Plans, as well as the regulatory approaches of the Office for Students, do enough to support higher education providers in widening access for economic growth and how employers and higher education providers can work together to meet their diversity and talent goals. It also examined the government’s role in linking opportunity, higher education, growth and social mobility.
Justine highlighted how the impact of the higher education sector extends far beyond its core mission as an educator, with universities and colleges acting as anchor institutions in their local areas. Helping to raise standards in schools, they inform and advise young people on the opportunities that higher education can offer. Creating a talent pipeline for graduates to access rewarding and well-paid careers, they foster individual growth. They offer entrepreneurial opportunities for students as well as for local and regional SMEs. They drive economic growth opportunities for existing sectors and generate world class research and innovation opportunities which enable the new growth sectors of the future. As major employers themselves, they also add value more broadly to local communities and economies through job creation and spending power.
Calling for a fresh perspective on the wider benefits of the higher education sector, Justine said:
“There’s a lot we can learn from the sector’s approach to community and economy building and their role as anchor institutions, rooted in their local areas with a long-term stake in helping to lift their communities. The opportunity footprint it generates can be transformational, not only for individuals but for the entire regions they serve. I would urge local and national policymakers, as well as businesses, to consider how they might adopt similar strategies to break down barriers and create a fairer and more prosperous society.”
Speakers at the event included:
Rt Hon Justine Greening, Chair of the Purpose Coalition and former Education Secretary
Professor Graeme Atherton Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Regional Engagement, University of West London and Vice-Principal, Ruskin College, Oxford
Professor Nic Beech, Vice-Chancellor, University of Salford
Lisa Hannah, Chief People and Communications Officer, Aldermore Bank
Ant Sutcliffe, Associate Director, Higher Horizons.
