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How Falling Birth Rates Reshape the Education Industry
Season 2
Episode 60
Published 1 week, 2 days ago
Description
In episode 60 of The Demographics Podcast, Lucas and Luna explore how declining birth rates are forcing a fundamental rethinking of education from pre-K through college. They examine one concrete example: Japan's University of Toyama, which saw undergraduate enrollment drop 30% between 2000 and 2020, and how the school responded by merging departments, cutting programs, and targeting international students. The hosts unpack the economic ripple effects: teacher surplus, school closures, and the shift toward lifelong learning as a revenue model. They also discuss how US colleges face a looming 'enrollment cliff' starting in 2026. A candid moment about listener support for the show is woven into the conversation.