Understanding the Issue

Once known for its “three-legged stool” of tobacco, furniture and textiles, the foundation of North Carolina’s economy has undergone profound changes in the 21st century. While in the past the state’s traditional economic base allowed workers with little formal education to earn a decent living, today six out of ten jobs in our new knowledge-intensive economy require at least some post-secondary education and training. Tomorrow, the percentage of jobs requiring education beyond K-12 will be even higher.

Higher education is at a turning point. Costs are rising faster than incomes. Public money is in short supply, while parents and students find paying fees an increasing burden. Many among poor and minority populations do not have sufficient access, and those who do tend to struggle or drop out after admission. Curricula have become rigid and poorly adapted to the needs of business and society. Understanding between higher education and citizens in general has declined. 

These and many other issues must be addressed if our system of higher education is to continue to meet the needs of society in the coming century and remain competitive within the United States and around the world.