Higher education experts Rhodri Davies and Dorrit Jacob have called on the Australian government to reconsider how it funds universities, emphasizing the importance of aligning financial support with institutional missions rather than prioritizing profitability.
In a recent statement, Davies and Jacob argued that current funding mechanisms risk incentivizing universities to focus on revenue generation at the expense of their educational and research objectives. They contend that a mission-based funding structure would better support the diverse roles universities play in society, including fostering innovation, critical thinking, and community engagement.
The call comes amid ongoing debates about the sustainability and equity of Australia’s higher education financing. Universities across the country have faced significant financial strain in recent years, exacerbated by reductions in government contributions and declines in international student enrollment due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Davies and Jacob warn that a continued emphasis on financial margins could widen disparities among institutions and compromise academic standards. They advocate for a national funding strategy that values long-term societal contributions as much as short-term economic returns.
Their proposals include revisiting performance-based funding criteria, increasing public investment in academic research, and supporting institutions that serve regional and disadvantaged communities.
The appeal aligns with broader concerns from educational leaders and policy analysts who have highlighted the need for comprehensive reform in university funding to ensure both excellence and accessibility in Australia’s higher education sector.
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