Four years have now passed since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. What began on 24 February 2022 as a moment of global shock has become a prolonged war of attrition — one that continues to cost lives, devastate communities and deliberately target the civic institutions that underpin a democratic society.

As the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine approaches, Cormack Consultancy Group (CCG) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Ukraine’s higher education sector through the continued development of the UK–Ukraine Twinning Initiative — one of the most significant coordinated responses by the global higher education community to the war.

Cormack Consultancy Group (CCG) is proud to announce the expansion of its partnership with Lincoln City FC, becoming the front-of-shirt sponsor for the Lincoln City Academy.

On the one hand, Horizon Europe is the largest research and innovation programme in the world — well funded, open to the UK again, and actively seeking international collaboration. On the other hand, many UK universities still treat it as something optional, peripheral, or simply too difficult.

Dyslexia affects around 10% of the population, yet many children and adults continue to face barriers to early identification and support despite clear evidence that timely intervention transforms outcomes. Through strategic partnerships and community initiatives, we are committed to raising awareness, improving access to assessment, and supporting evidence-based practices that help individuals with dyslexia thrive.

Transnational Education (TNE) is no longer a peripheral activity—it has become central to the future of global higher education. By integrating research, employability, and digital delivery, TNE can enrich student experiences both abroad and at home, while ensuring the UK remains a global leader in education innovation. The challenge is clear: move from rhetoric to reality, seizing bold, sustainable opportunities that transform lives worldwide.

UK universities face a unique strategic opportunity as global competitors tighten restrictions on international students, creating space for the UK to strengthen its position through long-term partnerships. While agent networks remain essential, sustainable competitive advantage will come from investing in robust institutional collaborations that build resilience, mutual value, and lasting global impact.

We asked Professor Sally Wheeler, Vice-Chancellor International at Birkbeck University, a series of questions about the evolving higher education landscape.

This piece explores why transnational education must move beyond short-term, recruitment-driven models to embrace truly transformational partnerships built on equity, shared investment, and long-term impact.

Despite the challenges facing U.S. universities in 2025—tightened visa policies, funding cuts, and political uncertainty—there is a clear precedent for transformation through disruption. Drawing on lessons from Australia and the UK, where crises catalyzed record growth and innovation, American institutions have a unique opportunity to emerge stronger by embracing global partnerships and hybrid delivery models. Strategic reinvention, not retrenchment, is the key to shaping the future of U.S. higher education.

Since the pandemic, the workplace has undergone a dramatic transformation—remote and hybrid roles are now the norm, especially in fast-growing sectors like tech. To thrive in this new environment, graduates need more than academic knowledge; they need Virtual Intelligence (VI)—the ability to communicate, collaborate, and work professionally from anywhere. Localized’s new Anywherepro assessment equips students with these essential skills, helping them stand out in a global job market.

As part of our blog series, Global Perspectives in Higher Education, we asked higher education professionals a series of questions to gain insights on the evolving landscape.

This month we hear from Antonius Raghubansie, Pro-Vice Chancellor International, Keele University.

At the APAIE 2025 conference in New Delhi, stakeholders emphasized the importance of aligning transnational education (TNE) initiatives with student expectations and governmental priorities. The University of Southampton's upcoming Delhi branch campus, opening in August 2025, exemplifies this approach. Experts from Oxford International Education Group and Studyportals highlighted the necessity for universities to employ sophisticated market research strategies to understand student behavior and ensure sustainable, mutually beneficial TNE models.

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As part of our blog series, Global Perspectives in Higher Education, we asked higher education professionals a series of questions to gain insights on the evolving landscape.

This month we hear from Mike Ferguson, Pro Vice Chancellor (International), Charles Sturt University.

📅 Dates: 19–20 March 2025 (Please sign up here)
📍 Venue: Dayanand Sagar University, Bengaluru, India

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Cormack Consultancy Group was proud to facilitate Arizona State University’s inaugural visit to Lithuania and Latvia from February 3–6, 2025, as part of their European engagement strategy. ASU’s delegation met with leading universities and key stakeholders to explore joint research and training opportunities in fields like semiconductors, sustainable energy, and med tech, laying the groundwork for future collaborations and funding applications.

As we mark three years since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the remarkable response from UK universities through the Twinning initiative stands as a beacon of solidarity and hope. With over £70 million in support, 105 institutional partnerships, dual degree programs, and vital infrastructure like power generators, this collaborative effort continues to strengthen Ukraine’s education sector and aid its long-term recovery.

Earlier this month, John Bunter and Shraddha Kadam visited leading institutions in Aurangabad and Kopargaon, including Sanjivani University, MGM University, MIT Asia Group of Institutes, and PES College. Their visit focused on introducing CCG’s Equitable TNE model and exploring opportunities to support these institutions in developing strong international partnerships.