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Who should pay for university?

Oct 3, 2024
Professor Dame Alison Wolf, a renowned expert in higher education funding and member of the House of Lords, joins the discussion surrounding university financial challenges. They delve into historical shifts in funding over the decades and the impact of tuition fees on students. The conversation explores disparities in funding between Scottish and English institutions, employer contributions to education costs, and the potential of a graduate tax system. Wolf provides keen insights into improving the current model while considering global comparisons.
30:01

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The funding landscape of universities has evolved dramatically, shifting the financial burden from government support to substantial tuition fees for students.
  • International students play a crucial role in university funding, raising financial concerns while also impacting immigration policies and national identity.

Deep dives

Historical Changes in University Funding

The funding of universities has undergone significant changes over the past 50 to 60 years, transitioning from a system where government funding covered nearly all expenses to one where students are expected to contribute significantly. In the past, many students graduated without debt due to the lack of tuition fees, which was sustainable only with a small number of attendees. However, as enrollment increased, governments worldwide began to struggle with funding, leading to the introduction of tuition fees as a means to generate revenue. This shift mirrored trends observed globally, demonstrating that no country remains entirely unaffected by the rising costs associated with mass higher education.

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