How can higher education remain resilient in an age of uncertainty?

Universities everywhere are under pressure, from political interference and funding cuts, to rapid technological change and shifting public expectations.

In this episode of Our World, Connected, host Christine Wilson speaks with Michael Ignatieff, an award-winning author and historian, former leader of Canada’s Liberal Party, and former President and Rector of Central European University (CEU). A keynote speaker at the British Council’s Going Global 2025 conference, Michael reflects on the “storm clouds” gathering over higher education, drawing on his experience leading CEU through significant challenges, including political pressure that forced the institution to relocate. Together, they examine what resilience means for higher education today, the role of international partnerships and values-led leadership, the defence of academic freedom, and the human side of teaching and learning.

We also hear live reflections from three delegates at last month’s Going Global conference. Urvashi Prasad, a public policy and health specialist explores the role of empathy and evidence in shaping education, whilst Rawan Taha, a UN World Food Programme officer and UK Alumni SDG Ambassador shares her experience of adapting, upskilling and building resilience through international study. Finally, Caryn Nery, Director of Transnational Education (TNE) Partnerships at Victoria University, reflects on how TNE models proved robust during Covid and why diversified, student-centred partnerships matter now more than ever.

Listen to Our World, Connected, brought to you by the British Council. Subscribe and follow for more conversations on culture, connection, and the power of education.

🏆 Winner of Gold for Thought Leadership at the 2025 Signal Awards.

Additional Resources:

Going Global

https://www.britishcouncil.org/going-global

Understanding the impact of transnational education: insights from UK TNE alumni

https://www.britishcouncil.org/research-insight/understanding-impact-transnational-education-insights-uk-tne-alumni

Alumni Voices 2025: UK Graduates, Global Influence

https://www.britishcouncil.org/research-insight/alumni-voices-2025-uk-graduates-global-influence

Alumni Voices 2025: UK Graduates, Global Influence

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