Population projections: a tool for a (re)definition of the Portuguese higher education system

Abstract

Population projections can be used as a tool to provide information on possible scenariosvof future population and, namely, to support decision-making processes in diverse socio-economic areas, such as, higher education institutional network planning, both in public and private sectors. In a country like Portugal, nowadays affected by a severe economical and financial crisis, with a young population characterized by low levels of education and qualification is fundamental to use population projections as a basis for higher education planning. The main goal of this paper is to evaluate the possible changes in the younger population size in the coming years as a tool to (re)think and (re)design geographically the higher education institutional network in Portugal. Our findings will provide a range of reliable forecasts to support a more rational political decision contributing to an efficient and effective planning in what concerns higher education requirements adjusted to the evolution of future population.