The value of a university education remains unmatched

IN AN era of rapid technological advancements and evolving job markets, the value of a university education remains unmatched.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) describe Higher Education as a rich cultural and scientific asset which equips students with the skills needed to succeed in an ever-evolving landscape.

They recognise that it can provide a passport to security and stability in a world which can be fraught with uncertainty, economic upheaval, and rapid societal changes.

Beyond the acquisition of subjectspecific knowledge from experts working at the cutting edge of research, universities serve as catalysts for personal and professional growth, nurturing students into well-rounded, adaptable, and resilient graduates.

At Bangor University, our Graduate Attributes Project has highlighted five core skills gained through Higher Education study and critical for success in our complex and dynamic world.

Self-Direction: One of the hallmark traits of successful individuals is their ability to take ownership of their journey. Studying for a degree instils in students a sense of initiative, self-assessment, and a commitment to lifelong learning.

By fostering a culture of self-direction, graduates are empowered to navigate the complexities of their chosen career paths with confidence and adaptability.

Inquiry: In an age inundated with information, the ability to think critically and inquire rigorously is paramount. Through an emphasis on openmindedness and evidence-based reasoning, academic study in any subject inspires curiosity and provides students with the tools to remain at the forefront of knowledge.

By nurturing a spirit of inquiry, university education prepares graduates to tackle the challenges of tomorrow with creativity and innovation.

Collaboration: In an increasingly interconnected world, success often hinges on our ability to work effectively within diverse teams.

Authentic assessments incorporating teamwork are common throughout academic programmes and these highlight the importance of collaboration in driving meaningful change. By fostering positive relationships and building interpersonal skills, graduates have the ability to deliver outstanding results in any professional setting.

Application: Knowledge, without the ability to apply it in real-world contexts, holds limited value. Degrees today place a strong emphasis on providing students with practical skills that transcend disciplinary boundaries. By combining subject knowledge with hands-on proficiency, graduates are equipped to make meaningful contributions to their chosen fields.

Challenge: Adversity is inevitable, but how we react and manage adversity defines our character and shapes our path forward, either propelling us towards growth and resilience or leaving us frustrated and stagnating.

The degree environment of regular assessment with constructive feedback cultivates resilience and a willingness to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.

By encouraging students to push beyond their comfort zones and challenge the status quo, graduates are prepared to thrive in the face of challenge.

The merits of a university education extend far beyond the lecture hall, shaping not only individual futures but also the trajectory of entire societies.

By embedding the principles of selfdirection, inquiry, collaboration, application, and challenge into degree programs, Bangor University ensures that our graduates are not merely ready to navigate the complexities of the modern labour market but are also poised to lead and innovate in their respective fields.

As we look to the future and reflect on the skills needed to succeed in our rapidly changing world, the transformative power of a university education becomes increasingly evident.

Higher Education empowers students to realize their full potential and inspires graduates to make a positive impact on the world around them, thus shaping the leaders, innovators, and change makers of tomorrow.

Professor Fay Short is Pro ViceChancellor, employability, at Bangor University