Universities are a key contributor to the UK economy, generating more than £95 billion per year and over 940,000 full-time equivalent jobs. They also strengthen the UK’s place in the world through international partnerships, attracting the world’s top talent and contributing £13.1 billion in export earnings.  

COVID-19 has had a devastating impact in the academic year 2019-20 with a loss of income amounting to £790 million. The current challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic are numerous and require an urgent response by universities.  

The impact of students in lockdown has presented mental health challenges for students facing anxiety, depression and loneliness. Universities have had to make their campuses as safe as possible and use technology to change the way they deliver learning.  

This event will examine how the Government and Academia are tackling the wide range of issues they are faced with. It will give an insight into what the future may look like post COVID-19 and how to manage the transition. 

Issues such as leadership, new models of learning, student wellbeing, marketing and recruitment will be examined from both a policy and practical perspective to gain new insights into the future of higher education.