The Highs and Lows of Education in 2024: Trying to Forge a Balanced Perspective

So with 2024 in the books, the education year in review feels like a mixed bag.

Did we seize the opportunities presented by the pandemic to redesign the world of learning?

Honestly, [probably] not enough.

While advanced technologies have entertained us with their potential, accessibility and funding remain persistent struggles.

Yet, amidst the chaos, there’s been no shortage of innovation—new courses, gurus, and conferences have emerged, each vying to shape the future of education.

Here’s a breakdown of the highs and lows that defined education in 2024.

The Highs

1. Advancements in EdTech [and the community around it] AI and machine learning continue to revolutionize learning, offering personalized education that adapts to individual needs.

Platforms like Toddle - Your Teaching Partner and Headrush Learning Inc. continue to push and help education move towards the digital frontiers.

High-energy events hosted by Mindvalley (led by Vishen Lakhiani ), the Hakuba Forum and the DUBAI FUTURE FOUNDATION (Dubai Future Forum) guided by Patrick Noack has grounded community and innovation to the field of education, [meets] futures and artificial intelligence.

Some wonderful local work was also advanced in 2024 with the likes of Leisa Grace Wilson and the Teach Middle East Magazine rallied local communities around the big Ed-Tech issues here in Dubai, Ravi Santlani gathered his local communities on multiple occasions across India.

“AI is not just about technology; it’s about humanity. In education, it can help us unlock the full potential of every learner.” – Fei-Fei Li

2. Increased Access to Online Education The pandemic’s shift to online learning has democratized education, reaching remote and underserved areas. Hugh Viney ’s Minerva's Virtual Academy is leading the charge.

Online education, despite its obvious challenges, continues to make world-class education accessible to students in conflict zones and low-income regions.

3. Growth of Micro Education Micro-schools like Acton Academy and Prenda have emerged as powerful alternatives to traditional mass schooling, offering personalized, flexible, and community-driven education. Initiatives like School of Humanity and The Knowledge Society (TKS) are pushing boundaries, proving that mass schooling is not the only way forward.

4. Global Collaboration International partnerships have enriched learning experiences. Organizations like Dubai Cares and the Al-Futtaim Education Foundation are connecting learners across the globe, fostering global consciousness.

5. Innovation in Curriculum Real-world education and 21st-century skills are taking centre stage. Schools like Avenues The World School , Hakuba International School , and Dalton School Hong kong are redefining curricula with project-based approaches and real-world learning.

Here in Dubai Knowledge & Human Development Authority listened to educator concerns and revamped the inspection protocols across the region (welcome news for many heads caught up in a cycle of non-stop inspection and review).

6. Increased "Glocal" Context Investments in education—both local and global—have addressed long-neglected areas. Farah Sarraj (PhD, MSc, MA, FRSA) Project AGHSAN has revitalized Arabic language education in Dubai, bridging gaps and fostering cultural understanding. More of this please!

The Lows

1. Rising Tuition Fees & Funding Despite increased funding, tuition fees have soared, escalating the student debt crisis. The University of California system’s 4.2% tuition hike and the UK’s VAT on private schools have made education less accessible.

“The rise in tuition fees highlights systemic issues in education funding, impacting equity and opportunity.” – Dr. Sandy Baum

2. Industry Influence on Curriculum Corporate involvement in curriculum design raises concerns about academic independence. Inside Higher Ed found that 30% of students believe industry-driven curricula prioritize job-specific skills over critical thinking.

3. Digital Divide Online education has exposed disparities in technology access. The World Bank reports that low-income students are 20% less likely to complete online assignments than their wealthier peers.

4. Job Market Uncertainty Graduates face a tough job market. The World Economic Forum predicts that 40% of workers will require reskilling in the next five years, and 65% of graduates feel unprepared for the workforce.

5. Decline in Humanities and Social Sciences Enrollment in humanities and social sciences has plummeted. The American Academy of Arts & Sciences reports a 16.5% decline in humanities majors since 2012, raising concerns about cultural understanding and critical thinking.

“The decline in humanities enrollment is not just about numbers; it’s about the loss of a space where students learn to think critically, communicate effectively, and understand the complexities of human culture.” – Dr. Paula Krebs

6. Faculty Burnout Increased demands on faculty have led to burnout. The Chronicle of Higher Education found that 40% of faculty members experience high levels of emotional exhaustion.

7. Outdated Systems & Resistance to Change Traditional education systems, reliant on standardized testing, continue to stifle innovation. The OECD - OCDE ECD reports that 70% of educators believe testing fails to measure student potential, and only 30% of schools have adopted innovative teaching methods.

Conclusion: Navigating the Future of Education

As we welcome 2025 from the vibrant city of Dubai, I’m filled with cautious optimism. The highs of 2024—technological advancements, global collaboration, and innovative curricula—offer promise. But the lows—rising tuition fees, the digital divide, and outdated systems—demand urgent attention.

In the words of Dan Koe, “I’m bullish on humans.” The education journey is ever-evolving, and so must our approach. Here’s to a brighter, more equitable future for learners everywhere.

So, what will 2025 bring?

Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure: the conversation about education will only escalate and possibly get more heated as opposing views [potentially] collide.