The AI balancing act: universities, innovation and the art of not losing the plot
Universities must harness AI’s promise with caution, ensuring innovation enhances rather than undermines education, equity and academic integrity.
Blog
The HEPI Blog aims to make brief, incisive contributions to the higher education policy landscape. It is circulated to our subscribers and published online. We welcome guest submissions, which should follow our Instructions for Blog Authors. Submissions should be sent to our Blog Editor, Josh Freeman, at [email protected].
Own Your Narrative: Why Personal Branding Matters for University Leaders
A clear, authentic personal brand helps university leaders build trust, amplify impact, and future-proof their careers in a changing sector.
Setting learners up for success in the global workforce
Digital learning portfolios offer students lifelong, portable proof of skills, enhancing global mobility and aligning education with workforce needs.
Beyond Rankings: Redefining University Success in the AI-Era
University rankings have long been a trusted, if controversial, proxy for quality. Students use them to decide where to study. Policymakers use them to shape funding. Universities use them to benchmark themselves against competitors. But in an AI-powered world, are these rankings still measuring what matters? If we’ve learned anything…
The proposed international student levy could be the tipping point for a fragile sector
A proposed 6% levy on international student fees could cost the University of Manchester £43 million annually and risk sector-wide harm.
“It stays with us”: Leading change in diversity and inclusion for professional services staff
Ethnically minoritised careers staff face burnout, exclusion, and microaggressions, yet structural reform and inclusive leadership offer hope.
ResearchPlus: a manifesto for a new collaborative of universities
ResearchPlus unites leading research-focused UK universities to boost innovation, skills, and regional and national prosperity.
Higher Education: 10 Questions from a Year 10
* To declare an interest, Ben Hillman is the son of Nick Hillman, HEPI’s Director.
Second Straight Quarter of Stabilised International Student Demand for a UK Study Visa
UK study visa applications rose 32% in Q1 2025, signaling sector recovery amid policy shifts and global competition.
Raising the Bar: A Graduate Design Engineer’s Path in Engineering
Empowering women in design engineering demands systemic, inclusive support that nurtures adaptability, resilience, and innovation for future careers.