AIEducationPolicy

AI Integration in Higher Education Sparks Debate Over Student Learning Outcomes

Global universities are rapidly integrating AI into campus life and curricula, with 86% of students reportedly using these tools regularly. Emerging research suggests AI may both enhance and hinder learning, raising questions about its long-term educational impact.

Global AI Adoption in Higher Education

Universities worldwide are embracing artificial intelligence at an unprecedented pace, according to reports from multiple institutions. From Tsinghua University’s AI campus assistants to Ohio State University’s mandatory AI fluency programs, educational institutions are scrambling to adapt to what analysts suggest represents a fundamental shift in teaching and learning methodologies. Sources indicate that 86% of university students were regularly using AI in their studies by 2024, with some surveys showing even higher adoption rates.

EducationPolicy

Education Department Reaches Agreement to Resume Student Loan Forgiveness for IDR Borrowers

The Education Department has agreed to resume processing student loan cancellations for borrowers in income-driven repayment plans following legal negotiations. The agreement ensures eligible borrowers won’t face federal tax bills on forgiven debt through 2025.

Loan Forgiveness Resumes for Income-Driven Repayment Participants

The U.S. Education Department has reached an agreement with the American Federation of Teachers to resume processing student loan cancellations for borrowers enrolled in income-driven repayment plans, according to court documents filed Friday. The resolution comes after temporary halts to loan discharges earlier this year that threatened to leave borrowers with significant tax liabilities.

EducationGovernment

White House Expands Outreach on Higher Education Funding Compact After Initial Rejections

The White House is broadening its outreach to universities regarding a proposed funding compact after facing rejections from initial invitees. Administration officials have scheduled a Friday meeting with Washington University, University of Kansas, and Arizona State University alongside previously invited institutions. Sources indicate the administration continues to seek participation in its education funding proposal despite early setbacks.

White House Expands University Outreach

The Trump administration is reportedly expanding its outreach to additional universities regarding its proposed funding compact after several initial invitees declined to participate, according to sources familiar with the matter. Officials from the White House have extended invitations to Washington University in St. Louis, the University of Kansas, and Arizona State University to join a Friday meeting discussing the proposal.

BusinessEducation

Harvard Endowment Hits Record $56.9 Billion Despite Operating Deficit Amid Federal Funding Turmoil

Harvard University’s endowment reached $56.9 billion with an 11.9% return in fiscal year 2025, marking significant growth. However, the institution reported its first operating deficit since 2020, totaling $113 million, attributed to federal funding suspensions and rising operational costs. University officials described the year as “extraordinarily challenging” despite record gift contributions.

Endowment Performance and Financial Results

Harvard University’s financial endowment reportedly grew by 11.9% to reach $56.9 billion in fiscal year 2025, according to the university’s recently released financial report. The endowment gained $3.7 billion during the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025, surpassing last year’s 9.6% return and exceeding the institution’s long-term goal of 8%. Analysts suggest the portfolio has averaged an annualized return of 9.6% over the past eight years.