s part of its mission to help drive digital inclusion and improved learning within the higher education sector, TalkTalk Business is pleased to announce its new membership with UCISA –the leading organisation representing major UK universities and higher education colleges.  

A registered charity, UCISA brings together a diverse community of educational institutions and commercial organisations, all of which are dedicated to advancing technology and connectivity within UK education.  

Supporting Digital Transformation in Higher Education 

We’re living through a period of profound transformation, and higher education is right in the thick of it. From evolving learning models to rising cost pressures, universities and colleges are navigating a complex digital landscape. Following conversations with a broad range of industry peers, we are seeing a common thread emerging: the need for cohesive digital workplaces, intelligent revenue-generating smart spaces, and resilient, cost-effective networks that can keep up with the pace of change. 

At TalkTalk Business, we’re uniquely positioned to support those in the higher education sector navigate these shifts. With over 25 years’ expertise in connectivity and managed network solutions, we help higher education institutions reimagine what’s possible through digital transformation. And in this period of change, transformation isn’t optional – it’s essential. 

While technology isn’t the answer for every challenge that higher education is facing, it’s a powerful tool for tackling many of them. Several key issues facing the sector right now can be directly addressed through smart connectivity, and it’s some of these we hope to discuss in more detail as a new member of UCISA:   

• Hybrid Learning Environments: The hybrid education model is here to stay. From red-bricks to post-92 institutions, higher education organisations are investing heavily in platforms that support both in-person and remote learners. But none of this works without rock-solid, scalable connectivity that ensures everyone stays in sync. 

• Cybersecurity: The news has shown us how major UK universities have faced cyberattacks, disrupting operations and exposing student data. These are a stark reminder of the sector’s vulnerability. And as digital reliance grows, so does the need for robust, always-on protection that safeguards trust and data integrity. 

• Digital Inclusion: Education should be a great equaliser, not a divider. Yet, without equal access to devices, connectivity and digital tools, students risk falling through the cracks. Whether it’s through campus-wide Wi-Fi initiatives or device accessibility programs, bridging the digital divide has to be a top priority. 

A Commitment to Excellence 

UCISA is a registered charity that operates on a not-for-profit basis, setting fees only at a level sufficient to carry out its important mission. TalkTalk Business is proud to support an organisation that aligns with our values of giving back and driving positive change. 

We’re not the only ones who are proud of this commitment to excellence. David Benjamin, President of International Markets Group at Blackbaud, highlighted the value of UCISA's work: "The focus on representation with suppliers [helped us to] negotiate more effectively and leverage the collective power of the sector in ways we haven’t been able to before."   

Join the Conversation 

We’re excited about the opportunities ahead and look forward to engaging with UCISA members at various throughout the year! Our team is always ready to discuss how we can help higher education organisations explore innovative tech and connectivity solutions.     Together, let’s build a more connected and secure future.   

Get in Touch 

If you're a UCISA member and would like to discuss best practices in technology and connectivity, we'd love to hear from you. Click here to get in touch!