That’s the contention of Australian educational analyst Dr Ant Bagshaw. He recently published Higher Imagination, in which he argues that Higher Education institutes are prioritising short term results over the wellbeing of staff and students.

In a world where data analytics and KPIs drive decision-making, it is sometimes easy to overlook the human factor. But as John Ross of the Times Higher Education points out, no university will survive for long if academics do not want to work there and students do not want to study there.

Running a joyful learning institution might sound a little vapid, but Dr Bagshaw explains that joy means more than happiness. It is a neurological state in which “the endorphins flow and the neurons fire.” Far from being a soft option, he says it can and should be a vital part of a learning institution’s mission. He notes that “as the institution gains a reputation as a joyful place, great staff and students are attracted and stay.” This is fundamental to achieving the great results that are of such importance.

Dr Bagshaw’s studies are based on Australian institutions, but the findings will resonate with Further Education institutions in the UK and across the world. Given the challenges facing both universities and the wider world, it makes sense that those institutions that can bring a sense of joy for both staff and students will find themselves in a better position to attract and retain the top talent.