Join Alex Usher on The World of Higher Education Podcast as he dives into the remarkable transformation of Uzbekistan's higher education system over the past decade. Komiljon Karimov, Rector of Westminster International University in Tashkent, shares his unique perspective on the fivefold expansion, the role of foreign universities, and the challenges of maintaining quality amidst rapid growth. Discover how Uzbekistan's new leadership and demographic changes sparked a massive overhaul, transforming the country into a burgeoning hub for higher education. Don't miss this in-depth discussion on one of the most extraordinary educational reforms of recent times.

Join Alex Usher on The World of Higher Education Podcast as he engages in a compelling discussion with Frank Ziegele, Executive Director of the Center for Higher Education in Germany. They delve into the intricacies of creating authentic missions for universities in a constantly evolving educational landscape. Ziegele sheds light on his book, 'Authentic Universities: Effective University Identities in Times of Transition,' discussing the importance of differentiation and authenticity. They explore the challenges and strategies for institutions to adopt distinctive missions, the role of government in encouraging diversity in education, and much more. Tune in to explore the complexities and opportunities of authentic university missions.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:32 Guest Introduction: Frank Ziegele

01:45 The Importance of Differentiation in Higher Education

02:10 Challenges and Opportunities in University Missions

04:17 Spotting Authentic Differentiation

05:15 Strategies for Authentic University Profiles

07:53 Government's Role in University Differentiation

09:12 Examples of Horizontal Differentiation

12:01 Implementing Differentiation Strategies

14:58 Overcoming Faculty Silos

17:47 Pitfalls in Developing Authentic Profiles

21:59 Global Perspectives on Differentiation

22:22 Reception and Impact of the Book

24:33 Conclusion and Farewell

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• Focus Friday: Sign up to receive our daily newsletter and register for our biweekly webinars for free
• Authentic Universities – Effective university identities in times of transition

In this episode of The World of Higher Education Podcast, Alex Usher discusses the unconventional structure and innovative approaches of Royal Roads University in Greater Victoria, British Columbia, with its President, Philip Steenkamp. Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, Royal Roads was originally a military college and has since evolved into a unique institution focusing on mid-career professionals, blending online and in-person education. Unlike traditional universities, it lacks a senate, does not offer conventional tenure, and operates with significant market orientation due to lower government funding. Philip elaborates on the university's response to financial challenges, initiatives in international education, and the recent opening of a new campus in Langford, aimed at undergraduate programs. He also shares valuable insights on their new transnational education venture in Dubai and strategies to maintain the university's competitiveness and sustainability.

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• Focus Friday: Sign up to receive our daily newsletter and register for our biweekly webinars for free

Join Alex Usher in a compelling interview with Noah Sobe, UNESCO's Chief of Section for Higher Education, as they discuss UNESCO's historic and evolving role in global higher education. Explore the organization's foundational goals post-World War II, its normative and operational functions, and groundbreaking initiatives like the Global Convention on Higher Education. Discover how UNESCO balances public good with market realities, prioritizes inclusive education, and shapes international academic standards.

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• Register for free: Focus Friday November 21 | AI in Action: Real-World Campus Experiments

In the final episode of 2025, host Alex Usher welcomes Robert Kelchen, a recurring favorite guest, to discuss the top 10 issues in American higher education over the past year. They cover a wide array of topics such as state funding for public higher education, efforts to dismantle the US Department of Education, rising athletic spending, DEI and admissions, the impact of artificial intelligence, international student enrollment trends, state-level DEI policies, and the challenges faced by university leadership. Additionally, they delve into the One Beautiful Bill Act and the Trump administration's higher education compact. Don't miss this comprehensive look into the major developments and challenges in the world of higher education in 2025.

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• Focus Friday: Sign up to receive our daily newsletter and register for our biweekly webinars for free

Join Tiffany MacLennan on the World of Higher Education Podcast as she interviews Alex Usher, President and CEO of Higher Education Strategy Associates, about their comprehensive report: The World of Higher Education — Year in Review 2025. This episode delves into the major global forces affecting higher education, including politics, demography, technology, and policy neglect. Understand the impacts of U.S. political upheavals, demographic declines, and rising private education in Western Europe. Learn which countries are emerging as bright spots and the fault lines to watch for in 2026.

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• Read the free report: The World of Higher Education — Year in Review 2025 by Higher Education Strategy Associates
• Register for free: Focus Friday December 5 | What is the Future of Work?

Join Alex Usher in the latest episode of the World of Higher Education Podcast as he talks with Rob Annan, President and CEO of Genome Canada. They explore the intertwined relationship of science and economic progress, the role of government in science funding, and the shift toward a more utilitarian approach to research funding. The discussion covers the current state of science, the impact of policy on scientific research, and the broader implications on public policy. They also delve into the Canadian context, discussing the nation's unique research system and its future direction.

👉 Episode Links:

• Genome Canada
• Register for free: Focus Friday December 5 | What is the Future of Work?

In this episode, Attila Pausits, Professor of Higher Education Research and Development, delves into the inaugural report by the Global Observatory on Higher Education Changes (GOHEC). Attila sheds light on the latest trends in higher education, the role of AI in research, and the importance of a global perspective in understanding educational transformations. Discover the key findings from GOHEC's 2024 survey, insights on digital transformation, political interventions, and regional contrasts across the globe.

👉 Episode Links:

• Global Observatory on Higher Education Changes (GOHEC)
• Annual Report of GOHEC - Journal of Research and Innovation in Higher Education (JRIHE)
• Register for free: Focus Friday November 21 | AI in Action: Real-World Campus Experiments