Episode

Episode #329: How University of the People Stays Workforce Aligned

Podcast
The Higher Ed Geek Podcast
Published
May 13, 2026
Duration seconds
1682
Processing state
not_requested
Canonical source
http://higheredgeek.com/podcast
Audio
https://afp-232483-injected.calisto.simplecastaudio.com/fb612789-3126-4c18-a9af-51b679db73e3/episodes/41fb4021-7307-44f8-bd98-ee82beabc020/audio/128/default.mp3?aid=rss_feed&awCollectionId=fb612789-3126-4c18-a9af-51b679db73e3&awEpisodeId=41fb4021-7307-44f8-bd98-ee82beabc020&feed=doLZc_ov
JSON
/v1/public/podcasts/the-higher-ed-geek-podcast-1126176/episodes/episode-329-how-university-of-the-people-stays-workforce-aligned
Markdown
/podcast/the-higher-ed-geek-podcast-1126176/episode-329-how-university-of-the-people-stays-workforce-aligned.md

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Summary

We’re pleased to welcome back Shai Reshef, founder of University of the People, to the show to talk more about his institution’s unique tuition-free, globally accessible model. We explore how aligning academic programs with workforce demand, while maintaining a strong foundation in critical thinking and general education, can create more equitable and sustainable pathways for students worldwide. The conversation also highlights the rise of stackable certificates, the importance of affordability and relevance, and why institutions must rethink traditional structures to better serve today’s learners and remain viable in a rapidly changing landscape.