Has higher education expanded globally?

Yes. Enrollment in universities and colleges has surged over the past 50 years. According to UNESCO, global higher education enrollment rose from 19% in 2000 to nearly 40% in 2020. More people are pursuing advanced skills in science, technology, and the arts, fueling innovation and economic growth. Online education has further expanded access, allowing learners to join global classrooms from anywhere. However, disparities remain between wealthy and low-income countries. Media literacy is crucial in evaluating education data – separating hype from progress. Evidence shows higher education is no longer an elite privilege but increasingly within global reach.