One big thing
In the face of rising concerns about the cost and value of higher education, University of Utah President Taylor Randall calls for a renewed focus on its societal and individual benefits. Despite the challenges, he stands firm in his belief that higher education has the power to transform lives and society.
Why it matters
“Higher education shapes minds and fosters ideas that possess the potential to revolutionize our society and transform lives forever,” said Randall. “We’ve got to acknowledge the concerns about higher education. From its cost and perceived value, to workforce alignment and viewpoint diversity on campuses. But let’s not lose sight of the myriad benefits it brings.”
He emphasized that higher education provides a platform for individuals to elevate their educational attainment, leading to:
- greater economic stability
- higher incomes
- improved quality of life.
Citing data, Randall noted that the correlation between education and income is indisputable, with higher education levels leading to higher incomes.
Go deeper
In addition, he underscored the wider societal benefits of an educated populace. These include fostering higher civic engagement, reducing reliance on public assistance, and boosting tax revenue.
Education promotes greater community involvement, with higher volunteer rates and voter participation among those with degrees or certificates.
In Utah, the presence of top-notch institutions of higher learning offers significant opportunities. However, Randall stressed the importance of continuous improvement in these institutions.
“We are fortunate in Utah to have great institutions of higher learning,” he said. “But we realize that we must improve as we continue to uplift lives and elevate society.”
Despite the concerns, the value of higher education remains undeniable. As such, the call is for continued investment in it, adapting to changing needs, and striving to make it accessible and valuable for all.