Crisis in UK Higher Education: Is the "Golden Age" Over?
The head of the universities watchdog in England has stated that the “golden age” of higher education could be over, and all options should be considered in response to the significant financial crisis affecting the sector. David Behan, the interim chair of the Office for Students (OFS), suggested that increasing tuition fees and lifting visa restrictions on international students could help revive struggling institutions.
Behan said, “The overall resilience of the sector has been tested by various factors such as the global pandemic, the impact of leaving the European Union, strikes, the cost of living crisis, the rising cost of pensions, and the decreasing number of international students. Additionally, with domestic undergraduate tuition fees being frozen since 2012, the financial deficit for some institutions has become significant.”
Amid concerns that some universities may face bankruptcy, Behan called on universities to explore mergers or partnerships with other institutions, stating, “It is important for universities to review their medium-term financial strategies. They cannot continue as they are.” When asked whether the government should increase tuition fees or lift postgraduate visa restrictions, Behan said, “If we are to mitigate the risks to this sector, we need to consider all possibilities. As we approach the budget discussions in October, it is necessary to consider what options are available to ensure the financial sustainability of the sector.”
Universities in the country argue that costs have risen due to energy bills, inflation, and compensation for students affected by strikes over pay and pensions. To increase their income, they have enrolled students from countries such as China, India, and Nigeria, charging tuition fees of up to £38,000 per year. However, recent visa restrictions on foreign students have negatively impacted this situation.