UIIN Podcasts

Future of Universities | What if universities led the future? Insights from Dubai Future Foundation

UIIN Podcasts

Show Notes

In this episode, we examine how universities can move beyond reacting to disruption and become institutions that actively shape the future with Heba Chehade, Head of Foresight Research at Dubai Future Foundation. We unpack how universities can use foresight to rethink their value proposition, strengthen partnerships, and design more resilient approaches to learning, research, policy, and public value. From AI and funding pressures to lifelong learning, modular education, and future-focused collaboration, the conversation explores how universities can become more intentional engines of progress in a rapidly changing world.

More from UIIN Podcasts

Oct 21, 2026

How can universities make academic consulting easier, safer, and more valuable? In this episode, Jaci Barnett, Chief Operating Officer at Oxford University Innovation, shares lessons on defining projects, managing risk, rewarding academics, and protecting independent judgement

Oct 19, 2026

How can universities make entrepreneurial learning part of their daily practice? In this episode, Antonella Sannella, Managing Director of H-FARM College, shares how industry projects, protected experimentation, a connected campus, and thoughtful use of AI help students apply knowledge and build judgement.

Oct 13, 2026

How can universities help fragmented regional systems coordinate and act? In this episode, Lisa Kehoe, Head of Impact Development at the University of Bristol, shares lessons from community micro-campuses, cyber growth planning, and health partnerships. She also explains why effective convening depends on curiosity, credible teams, practical experimentation, and long-term infrastructure.

Oct 7, 2026

How can researchers turn impact ambitions into benefits that matter beyond academia? For this episode, we invited Mark Reed, Professor of Rural Entrepreneurship at Scotland’s Rural College and CEO of Fast Track Impact, to share a practical approach based on external needs, inclusive relationships, small-scale learning, adaptable plans, and credible evidence.

Oct 5, 2026

What turns a collection of institutions into an innovation ecosystem? In this episode, John Howard, Visiting Professor at UTS and Leader of the Acton Institute for Policy Research and Innovation, explains how orchestration, collaboration, institutional diversity, and outcome-focused policy can help universities contribute more effectively to their regions.

See all episodes →