You're invited. The Macquarie University 2010 Vice-Chancellor's Annual Debate

'Australia is producing too many university graduates’

Higher education has never been so popular. Around the world young people are flocking to universities in the hope that a degree will propel them into the best jobs available.

It is has been estimated that over the next 30 years Australia will need to build around 24 new universities and recruit some 26,000 extra academic staff in order to cope with the demand for a university place. (Gallagher 2010).

It is accepted wisdom that Australia will continue to need even more graduates.

But is it right?

Is it possible that even now we have too many graduates with too few opportunities?

These will be among the questions tackled in this year’s Macquarie University Vice-Chancellor’s Annual Debate where the proposition will be – ‘Australia is producing too many university graduates’.

Leading the team agreeing that we are producing too many graduates is distinguished psychologist, social researcher and author Dr Hugh Mackay, who has made a lifelong study of the attitudes and behaviour of Australians.

Heading the team arguing against is Chief Executive of Universities Australia, Dr Glenn Withers AO, formerly Professor of Public Policy in the Crawford School of Economics and Government at the Australian National University.

Dr Mackay will be supported by Professor Phil Dolan, Director of Macquarie University’s Applied Finance Centre, and Macquarie graduate Vanessa Hoban.

Supporting Dr Withers will be Professor John Simons, Macquarie’s Executive Dean of Arts, and Macquarie graduate Tim Quadrio.

It promises to be a fascinating discussion on a topic of vital importance not only to universities, but also to students, potential students, academics, employers and governments.

And watch out for a very special performance by the Macquarie University Singers.

I look forward to seeing you there.

Macquarie University 2010 Vice-Chancellor’s Annual Debate

‘Australia is producing too many university graduates’

For the proposition:
Dr Hugh Mackay - Social researcher and author
Professor Phil Dolan - Director Applied Finance Centre
Ms Vanessa Hoban - recent graduate of the University

Against the proposition:
Dr Glenn Withers - CEO of Universities Australia
Professor John Simons - Executive Dean of Arts
Mr Tim Quadrio - recent graduate of the University

What: Vice-Chancellor’s Annual Debate
When: 13th October 2010, 5:45 for a 6pm start
Where: Building E7B Courtyard, Macquarie University

Canapés and drinks will be provided in the marquee after the debate

Inquiries:  

Bronwyn Forster
(02) 9850 7440
Email: Bronwyn.forster@mq.edu.au

To attend please register online.

This message was sent by David Myton, Co-ordinator, Public Relations (Vice-Chancellor's Office) and approved by Professor Steven Schwartz, Vice-Chancellor.

Contact: David Myton

Phone: Ext 7434

Publish Date: 16 Sep 2010