The Wonkhe Show

In this lively discussion, Gary Hughes, CEO at Durham SU, shares insights on university architecture and student mobility in Portugal. Khadiza Hossein, VP Education at UWE SU, dives into the challenges of faculty conflicts and effective teaching methods in Lisbon. Emillia Zirker, Student Representation Officer at Lincoln SU, reflects on student life and unique traditions in Portuguese universities, including creative rituals tied to graduation. They explore the dynamic landscape of higher education, offering a glimpse into cultural practices and innovative student-led initiatives.

Liam White, President of Surrey Students' Union, champions student advocacy and the improvement of university experiences. In this engaging discussion, he tackles the myth of the full-time student model and the pressures faced by nursing and international students. Liam also sheds light on systemic issues such as tokenistic consultation and the challenges of disability and inclusivity in education. Additionally, he emphasizes the need for student solidarity and tailored support initiatives in Greater Manchester, making a case for meaningful engagement with diverse student populations.

Mary Curnock Cook, a non-executive director in education, joins inclusion consultant Pete Quinn and Wonkhe's Mack Marshall to explore pressing issues in higher education. They discuss new research revealing a troubling trend in student regret and the need for better guidance. The conversation also covers the fallout from the collapse of the Advanced Business Academy, highlighting gaps in course delivery and oversight. Additionally, they examine widening participation disparities and the implications for disadvantaged students, emphasizing the urgent need for reform.

Vivienne Stern, Chief Executive at Universities UK, Jonathan Simons, Partner at Public First, and Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe, dive into critical issues in higher education. They discuss the University of Sussex's hefty fine for free speech violations and the complexities surrounding academic freedom. The conversation then shifts to the controversial rise of franchising in education, exploring its potential pitfalls and the urgent need for reform. Insights reveal how these challenges impact student welfare and institutional accountability in a rapidly evolving landscape.

In a vibrant discussion, Mark Peace, a Professor of Innovation in Education, and Jimena Alamo, President of the University of Bath Students’ Union, dive into the financial crisis impacting Scotland's universities. They question whether free education can endure amid funding challenges. The duo explores commuter students' obstacles, the need for ethical campus spaces, and how AI may reshape academic standards. They also advocate for flexibility in curricula and innovative solutions to enhance student engagement in higher education.

This week features Julian Gravatt, Deputy Chief Executive at the Association of Colleges, Janice Kay, former Provost of the University of Exeter, and James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe. They dive into the implications of the government’s free speech act and its impact on academic discourse. The conversation highlights how crucial graduates are to the government’s industrial strategy and exposes the inequalities in student maintenance support, urging for overdue reforms. It’s an engaging exploration of higher education's evolving landscape!

Brooke Storer-Church, CEO at GuildHE, and Neil Mackenzie, CEO at Leeds Beckett Students’ Union, dive into the evolving landscape of higher education. They discuss Edward Peck's appointment as Chair of OfS and its implications for governing bodies. The conversation also unpacks critical amendments to the Employment Rights Bill, particularly around zero-hours contracts, and examines the shift from knowledge to skills in university curricula to meet economic demands. Together, they navigate pressing issues regarding student experiences and institutional sustainability.

Mark Bennett, Director for Audience Insight at FindAUniversity, Sarah Chaytor, Head of Policy for Higher Education Research at the British Academy, and Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe, dive into the evolving landscape of higher education. They discuss new leadership changes at UKRI and RFS, highlighting implications for funding and policy. A significant rise in generative AI use among students sparks debate on adapting assessments. Lastly, challenges with post-study work visas are explored, raising concerns about international recruitment in a shifting immigration landscape.

Andy Westwood, a policy expert from the University of Manchester, Emma Maslin, a senior officer at AMOSSHE focusing on student support, and Livia Scott, a partnerships coordinator at Wonkhe, discuss vital issues in Welsh higher education. They explore the implications of the Welsh government’s new funding and the alarming rise of student mental health issues. The conversation emphasizes the need for collaboration among universities and healthcare systems to enhance mental health strategies and tackle the growing regulatory burdens impacting student protection.

This week on the podcast universities failing to promote diversity will face funding cuts – so said The Times. We chat through the controversy building around the REF. Plus we look at what the sector is asking for in the spending review, and consider the government’s push for lower-level, shorter apprenticeships.With Shitij Kapur, Vice Chancellor and President at King's College London, Jess Lister, Director (Education) at Public First, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.Universities UK submits to spending reviewThe barriers that must be removed for degree apprenticeships to meet NHS workforce targetsHigher education institutions have invested time, effort and money in level 7 apprenticeshipsSocieties that are humane are thoughtful about promoting equality, diversity and inclusionPredictably bad education Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.