Universities as Living Labs for Sustainable Development of Our Societies

Abstract

Sustainable development requires a holistic approach and calls for the update in environmental, security, economic and social life of our societies. Climate change and global ecological crises, conventional industry and business patterns, wars and social unrest, technological advancements and the rise of AI make universities worldwide rethink their role in the society. Universities need to be at the forefront for Agenda 2030, act as a catalyst and to help societies to find solutions to overcome SDG implementation gaps of binding commitments, enforcement mechanisms, and legal accountability. Traditionally centred on education and research, today universities have to focus on their social responsibility providing service to society by shifting from closed specialized knowledge hubs into experimentation and life-long learning, society problem solving, and placing greater emphasis on security, resilience and critical thinking.