Australia’s federal government has signaled a major push for growth in the higher education sector, promising a thrilling and transformative future. However, as the country moves towards a universal higher education system, it is essential to consider the needs of the students—those who have the most at stake but the least power to influence the system.
The Current Model: A Flawed Approach
The existing approach to higher education in Australia, like in many parts of the world, is largely driven by economic needs, focusing on labor market demands and treating students as units of human capital. While this model has succeeded in rapidly developing economies, it overlooks the complexities of educational and personal development, often failing to address the diverse needs of students.
Australia’s universities, rooted in middle-class, Western liberal values, may not always resonate with the realities of students from diverse backgrounds, including First Nations students, those from rural areas, or those juggling part-time study and work. The traditional university model can be alienating for these students, highlighting the need for a more inclusive and adaptable approach.
Proposing a Student Accord
What if, instead of a Universities Accord, Australia introduced a Student Accord? Such an initiative would focus on designing a tertiary education system around the needs of students rather than legacy arrangements. As Australia continues to enroll an increasingly diverse student body, it is crucial to ensure that all students are supported and set up for success.
A Student Accord would address several key areas:
- Income Support:
- A universal system requires comprehensive income support for students. Currently, many students are employed while studying, often in low-paid jobs unrelated to their field of study. Subsidies for living costs, as well as tuition fees, would alleviate financial stress and allow students to focus more on their education.
- Expanding eligibility for Youth Allowance and Austudy, particularly for part-time students, is necessary. This change would require significant investment but is essential for increasing participation rates among financially disadvantaged and mature-age students.
- Support for Transitions:
- The decision to pursue higher education should not be about ‘if’ but ‘what kind’ of education. A Student Accord could help students navigate the complex landscape of tertiary education, providing clear pathways and support for transitions into and through the system.
- Automation tools could be used to streamline processes, making it easier for students to access the support they need.
- Enhancing Student Success:
- Universities should focus on helping students succeed not just academically but in practical, real-world ways. This could involve providing ‘success assistants’ who guide students through their educational journey, helping them make the most of their university experience.
- Institutions need to listen to student feedback and respond meaningfully to improve their offerings continually.
- Building Social Connections:
- Higher education is not just about academic learning; it’s also about forming social connections. Universities should facilitate opportunities for students to build networks and friendships, which are crucial for both personal and professional development.
- Student Involvement in Decision-Making:
- Students should have a more active role in shaping the policies and practices that affect their education. This could involve greater representation on university councils and governing boards, supported by formal training and coaching.
Moving Forward
As Australia continues to expand its higher education system, it must rethink how it engages and supports its students. A Student Accord could provide the framework for a more inclusive, student-centered approach that recognizes the diverse needs of learners and empowers them to succeed. By focusing on students’ needs rather than institutional legacies, Australia can ensure that its higher education system remains innovative, inclusive, and globally competitive.
