The HEDx Future Solutions Conference, held on 31st October at The University of Queensland, brought together nearly 500 participants, including 35 leaders from universities, technology companies, and support organisations. Key discussion themes from the event were based around 5 critical questions: 

1. Support for Student Success and their Mental Health and Well-being

A central theme was the need for tertiary providers to support all aspects of student engagement and success including their mental health, particularly addressing loneliness and improving retention. Participants were concerned about the pressures faced by students, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Speakers highlighted the importance of providing holistic support, integrating mental health services, and fostering community-building initiatives. Predictive analytics, powered by data and technology, were identified as crucial tools in improving student outcomes. 

2. Redefining Universities’ Purpose and Role 

Tertiary providers need to rethink their missions to better align with societal needs. Speakers emphasised that providers must adapt to serve broader community and industry demands. The focus should not be on what universities and others claim to excel at, but on what they are truly good for, in terms of both educational and societal impact.

3. AI and Integrity in Education 

The rapid growth of AI technologies raised concerns about how tertiary providers can balance innovation with ethical standards. Participants questioned how AI could be integrated into teaching, research, and operations while maintaining academic integrity. Speakers discussed the importance of responsible AI use and ethical implications, as well as preparing students for an increasingly AI-world.

4. Skills Alignment with Industry Needs 

As the job market changes rapidly, providers must ensure curricula align with industry requirements. Discussions at the event highlighted the need for providers to better prepare students for a workforce shaped by technological change. Speakers advocated for stronger partnerships between integrated providers and employers to develop curricula that are flexible and responsive to future demands. 

5. From Dialogue to Action 

A major theme was the need to transition from conversation to concrete action. Many participants expressed frustration over the lack of real progress and emphasised the importance of implementation. Speakers stressed that leaders must move beyond discussions to achieve measurable outcomes that directly address the challenges facing tertiary education. 

Proposed Action Plan for Change 

Based on the insights from the event, HEDx proposes four key collaborative projects designed to create tangible change in the sector:

1. Data-Driven Equity Student Support Initiative 
2. Collaborative AI Co-Design Workshops 
3. Future Skills Workshops 
4. HEDx Future Showcases and Podcast Themes An Agenda for Action 

The outcomes of the HEDx gathering provide a clear agenda for tertiary education’s future.

Tertiary education stands at a critical juncture. While the challenges are significant, there is also a real opportunity for transformative change. By working together, universities and other providers, industry partners, and technology companies can take concrete steps to reshape education for the future. HEDx is committed to leading this change and invites others to join in, ensuring that education meets needs of students, society, and the workforce.

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