SURF Future Scenarios

Educational and research institutions face many challenges and uncertainties, and therefore, visions and strategies are developed. However, to make well-informed strategic decisions as a collective, we need to explore different possible futures together and develop a shared understanding of what “digital transformation” could look like.

In this collaborative project, we will develop four alternative future scenarios for education and research. Through a series of workshops, desk research and interviews with stakeholders, we will explore different developments and challenge the assumptions we hold about the future. These scenarios will stimulate discussion, develop a shared language across the sector and support informed decision-making.

For whom?

We are looking for various voices from education and research. Prerequisite knowledge is not required as long as you have a flexible mindset and are curious. Everyone working in education and research who is keen to help shape the future together with us.

What does participation involve?

The project consists of three collaborative workshops:

• 14 January 2027 – Kick-off: identify initial dynamics and uncertainties.
• 1 February 2027 – Develop future scenarios based on the refined analysis.
• 25 March 2027 – Refine the scenarios for the intended audiences.

Participants are expected to commit to all three workshop dates when registering. This ensures continuity and allows the group to work together throughout the project.

Participation in this project is by registration and selection.

Do you have any questions about this project?

Please email futuring@surf.nl.