The 21st century has brought significant challenges to higher education, including rising tuition costs, limited accessibility, and curricula that often fail to prepare graduates for the demands of the modern workforce. This paper investigates these interconnected challenges through a comprehensive review and synthesis of existing literature and research findings. The study examines the financial burdens faced by students, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds, and critiques the limitations of traditional teaching methods and assessment practices. The research proposes a transformative roadmap for higher education, emphasizing affordability, accessibility, and the cultivation of essential skills. It highlights the potential of technology to enhance access and create engaging learning environments that foster active learning. The study also advocates for a curriculum redesign that incorporates interdisciplinary approaches, problem-based learning, simulations, and critical reflection, empowering graduates to navigate a complex and interconnected world. The paper concludes by stressing the importance of collaboration among diverse stakeholders to achieve a comprehensive transformation of higher education, ensuring it remains a powerful force for social mobility, economic advancement, and individual empowerment in the 21st century.