ABSTRACT
In this collection of essays, I start by exploring the factors that led to the modern university systems with which we are familiar around the world. These different systems are experiencing different problems – which means there will often be different solutions. This also means, though, that the solutions that work in one country will not necessarily work in another. All too often in the Netherlands, for example, attempts are made to solve problems by imitating American or English universities, even though the nature of the Dutch system might make this impossible. In the second part, I identify the major challenges that the universities are facing as a result of societal changes. These can also differ by continent, or even by country. In the third part, over a number of essays, I consider the question of how universities will respond to the pressure emanating from these changing social circumstances: new threats will emerge in the coming 25 years, but also great opportunities.
