Analytical Summary: What have we learned? John Fielden World Bank Consultant

Reforms are possible Three very striking examples of reform programmes under way: in Malaysia, Pakistan and Vietnam Containing similar elements, even though countries differ in state of HE evolution. How did they happen? Was political will the main driver?

Challenges are different Malaysia - notching up to regional leadership and some world class universities, alongside growth within a national Vision. Pakistan - overcoming years of neglect and gearing for growth with ambitious focus on quality of people and ICT/equipment support. Vietnam - determined to break out of vicious circle of low quality, poor facilities and low funding.

But solutions are similar Comprehensive strategic reform programmes. Partnership with industry in programmes and governance. Competitive environments for staff and funding. Funding models changed. Emphasis on leadership by VCs. Role of MOE/HEC changed. Upgrading staff through PhDs.

Innovation and commercialisation of research Countries gain where universities build up an investment in R&D and patents. Search must be to see where HE can add value to basic services or products. One approach to R&D is to start from the user end and “work backwards” to the design stage and focus on regional markets, where US/Europe cannot go.

Labour market Graduate unemployment does not worsen as the HE system expands. But life long learning demand and employers mean universities must be flexible in responding to employers’ needs – such as meeting skills gaps. Bring private industry closer to HE decision making and on to Boards at all levels.

Governance and funding Greater autonomy enables HEIs to be competitive and entrepreneurial May require a legal framework and new structures for monitoring performance. Good institutional governance may have to be nurtured with training. Many options for fee setting and income generation. New models of funding formulae, performance contracts, vouchers and competitive funding. Why not be passionate about advancement? The income liberates you from reliance on the State’s core funding.

Quality Assurance Old notions of quality are not enough. Do you know what you want? One model of QA does not fit all. Introducing External QA in an HEI needs a lot of awareness and prior education. QA is a never ending process. QA must be internationally linked. Leaders should try to instil a quality culture

Borderless Higher Education Borderless HE is not a threat and can be an opportunity to reduce brain drain. There is a big difference between a country which welcomes international students and providers (Malaysia) and one which does not –yet (India) Clear policies (and “rules of engagement”) on int’l providers should be included in National HE Strategies and Action Plans.

What I will take away HEC members are tenured so they are less likely to lose office when political leaders change. Income tax reduction for faculty members. Say “No” to …… The importance of bringing everything together in a National HE strategy.