In Denmark, the debate on the university reform and the reduction of postgraduate programs has raised concerns among businesses, and not without reason. If we cut the number of students in higher education programs such as economics, engineering, and IT, we risk exacerbating the shortage of qualified labor in Danish companies. This could lead to more international companies recruiting foreign employees for positions in Denmark.

Today, many positions in international companies are already advertised globally. With a more international workforce and culture, companies find it easier to hire foreigners in Denmark without major challenges. If the number of Danish-educated candidates decreases, the result could be an influx of highly educated international professionals into the country. This increases competitive pressure on Danish candidates and makes Denmark more dependent on foreign resources.

But this raises an important question: Will Denmark, in the long run, become poorer in knowledge? A reduction in the number of highly educated Danes could lead to a knowledge economy deficit. It is the highly educated who often drive innovation and development in companies, thereby ensuring Denmark’s global competitiveness.

One potential solution could be to think more broadly about the skills Denmark needs. We also face a significant challenge in securing qualified labor for trades and other essential functions that are not necessarily knowledge-intensive. In this context, it might make sense to attract more international workers who can contribute to these areas.

The university reform aims to align the education system with future needs. However, if we are not careful, the reform could end up creating more problems than it solves. Reducing student intake at universities with low graduate unemployment, such as DTU and CBS, seems short-sighted. Instead, we should focus on creating a balance between the knowledge economy and practical fields, both of which are crucial for Denmark’s future.

Denmark needs an education policy with a “long-term perspective” – one that not only addresses current challenges but also prepares us for the future. By attracting and retaining the right talents, both Danish and international, we can ensure that Denmark remains a world-class knowledge society.