Considering global perspectives on the University of the Future

The University of Cape Town (UCT) recently continued its conversations around the University of the Future (UoF), with international expert on the future of higher education, Professor Ulf-Daniel Ehlers sharing some insights into how universities internationally are considering the necessary evolution of institutions of higher learning

Co-hosted by the UoF steering committee and the African Research Society at the Neuroscience Institute last month, the event underscored UCT’s commitment to inclusive dialogue, bringing together Council members, international experts, faculty, and student representatives to shape the university’s future.

Dianna Yach, who represented the UCT Council, set the tone with a welcome address that emphasised the potential of the project’s holistic approach. “This isn’t just about reimagining infrastructure or updating policies,” Yach stated. “It’s about addressing the human factors that create an enabling environment for teaching, learning, and research for all students, staff and alumni. Building the University of the Future calls for a transformation at a much deeper level that speaks to heart, mind and soul; one that reassess relationships at all levels.”

Reimagining the role of universities

The keynote address was given by Professor Ehlers, the author of Creating a university of the future. He provided a compelling global perspective, sharing insights from his extensive research across five continents, including his role co-chairing a committee of 27 states across the European Union on future universities.

In his address, Ehlers presented a paradigm shift in thinking about higher education that is taking place all around the world:

• He contrasted two models of higher education: the traditional model, depicted as a triangle and characterised by social selectivity, competition, and transactional relationships; and a future model, represented by a circle and distinguished by inclusivity, diversity, and transformative experiences.
• He emphasised the shift towards lifelong learning and the importance of universities being responsive to societal needs.
• He introduced concepts such as the “future skills university” and the "multi-institutional network university,” highlighting the need for flexibility and collaboration in higher education.

“The future of universities is not a given,” Ehlers noted. “They must be created intentionally.”

Local contexts and diverse perspectives

Following Ehlers’ keynote, a panel discussion explored how global trends could be applied in the UCT, South African, and broader African contexts. The panel was facilitated by Professor Salome Maswime, the chair of the UoF steering committee, and brought together diverse perspectives from across the university community:

Dr Glenda Cox, the UNESCO chair in Open Education, advocated for open knowledge and moving away from neo-competition. She stated that knowledge should be a public good and stressed the importance of open education in addressing global challenges.

“When you ask about the university of the future, it will depend on who you’re asking.”

Dr Kerrin Begg, speaking from a health perspective, emphasised the need for curriculum transformation and a paradigm shift in teaching and learning. She highlighted the importance of understanding the “why” behind education and fostering growth in self-compassion and self-actualisation among students.

Hlamulo Khorommbi, representing the Students’ Representative Council (SRC), brought a crucial student perspective to the discussion. Khorommbi reminded attendees of the importance of addressing historical inequalities and ensuring that the university of the future serves all members of society. “When you ask about the university of the future, it will depend on who you’re asking,” Khorommbi pointed out, highlighting the diversity of needs and expectations within the student body.

Looking ahead

As UCT continues to refine its visions for the future, the university community is encouraged to engage actively with these ideas. The UoF belongs to all those who prepare for it, and UCT is committed to ensuring that all voices are heard in this transformative journey.

The project is currently writing a conceptual framework that aims to provide guidance in how these ideas and insights gathered from the roadshow last year and ideas submitted as part of the challenge can be translated into concrete plans and action for the university.

As one attendee noted, it will be crucial to “carry along the bureaucratic processes with this conversation” to ensure that real change can be implemented.

With its rich history and forward-thinking approach, UCT is well positioned to lead in reimagining higher education for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow. The UoF project represents not just a change in infrastructure or policy, but a fundamental rethinking of what a university can and should be in service to society.