Aegean College, with its solid presence in the higher education sector, participated in “Transformation and Governance at the Core of Higher Education: A Human-Centered Approach”, a prestigious international conference organized by Advance HE. The conference took place in Birmingham on December 4, 2024, bringing together prominent representatives from academia, industry, politics and institutional bodies.
The assessment of the conference by Advance HE highlights the central themes of the discussions and analyzes the strategies explored to enhance the sustainability and effectiveness of universities.
The conference focused on the challenges and opportunities arising from the ongoing changes in the educational landscape. Participants had the chance to explore strategies that could strengthen the sustainability and effectiveness of higher education institutions, with a particular emphasis placed on human-centered governance approaches.
The adaptation to VUCA models (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity), ensuring quality through KPIs and Balanced Scorecards and reinforcing ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) strategies, were some of the critical topics of discussion. The need to combine research activities with practical applications was also emphasized, ensuring that universities better meet the needs of society.
Aegean College played an active role in the conference, presenting its own approach to integrating ESG principles into its strategic framework. With its longstanding presence in the Greek educational system and its commitment to innovation, the college is a leader in adopting sustainable practices that enhance the quality of education provided.
In light of the passage of Law 5094/2024, which paves the way for the establishment of non-state universities in Greece, Aegean College is emerging as a key player in the new era of higher education. Its commitment to excellence and social responsibility aligns perfectly with the guidelines outlined during the conference.
During the conference, particular attention was given to the “post-golden age” of higher education, where institutions must adapt to continuous technological and societal changes. The impact of artificial intelligence, the transition to lifelong learning and collaborations between universities and industry were highlighted as the primary directions for the future.
The presentation by Sir David Behan, Chair of the Office for Students (OfS), emphasized the importance of strategic adaptation to new realities. His speech addressed financial challenges, the need for more compact educational programs and the enhancement of sustainability as critical factors.
The conference underscored the need for continuous transformation of higher education institutions. The integration of technological tools, the sustainable management of resources and the implementation of innovative governance strategies are essential factors that will determine the success of universities in the new educational era.
Aegean College through its active participation in the conference, reaffirmed its commitment to being at the forefront of developments. With vision, flexibility, and consistency, it continues to offer high-quality education, responding to the demands of a dynamic and ever-changing environment.