The Australian university system is in crisis, but this isn't a sudden development. It's been decades in the making, and the root causes are deeply intertwined with global economic shifts and the rise of managerialism. Here's a breakdown of how we got here and what it means for the future of higher education.
Globalization and the Rise of White-Collar Work
The 1970s and 80s saw significant changes in the global economy. Industries became more interconnected, with parts and materials sourced from various countries. This led to a focus on cost-cutting and efficiency, often at the expense of quality and long-term sustainability.
In response, the Australian government stepped in to consolidate higher education institutions in the 1980s. This aimed to spread the burden of tuition costs and expand university enrolments, preparing more people for white-collar professions. While this boosted the workforce, it also set the stage for the next wave of challenges.
The Rise of Managers and the Marketization of Education
The growth of white-collar work meant a surge in demand for managers. Universities, with their expanding enrolments, became more complex organizations, requiring a larger managerial workforce. This shift in power dynamics led to a reorientation of the university's mission.
Instead of focusing on teaching and learning relationships, universities became metrics-driven, with bosses prioritizing efficiency and control. This marketization of education skewed the priorities of university leadership, leading to a disconnect between academics and management.
The Crisis of Austerity and Student Debt
As globalisation demanded austerity, university bosses sought to control costs, often at the expense of academic staff and student well-being. This led to staff cuts, with some cases resulting in "stop work" orders due to psychological harm. Students, meanwhile, face rising levels of debt and a world where affordable housing is increasingly out of reach.
The Way Forward: A More Democratic University
So, what's the solution? Higher education commentators often propose increased government funding or a reorientation towards the public good. While these are valid points, I believe a more democratic approach within universities is crucial.
University bosses, who are often part of the problem, need to be held accountable. A more democratic decision-making process, involving academics and students, can help restore trust and address the systemic issues within the university system.
The crisis in Australian universities is a complex issue, but it's one that can be addressed. By recognizing the historical context and the role of managerialism, we can begin to build a more sustainable and equitable higher education system.
