Higher education is currently undergoing its most significant trial, and remarkably, it is demonstrating success in addressing these challenges.
Higher education is successfully navigating through some of the most significant challenges in the nation’s history, displaying commendable achievements on at least three fronts.
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Higher education
Firstly, despite acknowledged challenges and the need for reform, the system is making significant contributions. Beyond the financial realm, individuals with education beyond high school tend to earn more, live longer, experience fewer divorces, and exhibit reduced tendencies for depression. While the system isn’t flawless, these positive aspects provide a solid foundation for improvement.
Despite issues such as rising costs, racial disparities, and uneven career preparation, the growth in college attainment over the last 15 years has been a notable social success. The percentage of individuals with college degrees or valuable credentials has risen from 38 percent in 2008 to 54 percent last year.
As society’s demand for talent continues to rise, with two-thirds of good-paying jobs requiring post-high school credentials, there is a need to ensure fairness by closing equity gaps in attainment. Emphasizing racial equity not only benefits individuals but also fosters shared outcomes beneficial to everyone.
The ongoing pursuit of improvement now centers on addressing the complex needs of today’s students, which can be envisioned as a three-legged stool involving financial issues, academic challenges, and social/emotional needs. The key is recognizing the interconnectedness of these challenges and adopting a comprehensive approach.
Several institutions have shown progress in this regard:
The University of Kentucky’s Office of Student Success achieved an 86 percent retention rate through a holistic approach.
HBCUs like Delaware State, Bowie State, and Tuskegee are recognized for their efforts in supporting student mental health and wellness.
California Community Colleges are utilizing $30 million in new state funding to establish basic needs centers.
Florida International University, with a diverse student body, excels in providing academic, financial, and social supports.
Technology, particularly in coaching and advising, is playing a significant role. As artificial intelligence systems improve, they can work collaboratively with human counselors to enhance student support.
Additionally, institutions are actively building new partnerships with local companies, offering internships and immersive learning opportunities. Recognizing the value of certificates and high-quality, short-term credentials is also gaining importance, emphasizing the seamless integration of learning and earning throughout one’s life.
While challenges exist, partnerships are growing, such as Amazon Web Services collaborating with over 200 U.S. colleges to train students in cloud computing. LaGuardia Community College in New York is successfully working with healthcare groups to train students in medical billing, boasting high completion and employment rates.
Finally, telling the story of higher education in plain language is crucial. Emphasizing its contributions—economic, social, and cultural—for individuals and society is essential. This clear narrative can counteract the divisive public dialogue, ensuring that higher education continues to play a pivotal role in preparing individuals for work, life, and meaningful contributions to their communities. Despite the unprecedented stress test, higher education, with its rich history, remains a vital engine of progress and opportunity, both domestically and globally.
