Universities must evolve from degree-granting hubs to social anchors

The era of universities as simply degree-granting institutions is ebbing. They are now social anchors, lifelong learning hubs and incubators of ethical leadership. Yet, amid global challenges such as climate change, technological disruption, economic inequality and geopolitical tensions, the public is increasingly skeptical about the value of higher education. Questions persist about universities’ relevance, accessibility and accountability.

So, what more can higher education institutions do to rebuild public trust? How can they demonstrate industry value and ethical leadership and ensure that their impact extends beyond campus and into society?

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This article explores how universities can redefine their mission by embedding public good, accessible learning and ethical governance into their core purpose.

1. Rebuilding trust: higher education as a public good

Rising tuition costs, a disconnect between academic programmes and workforce needs, and concerns over institutional transparency have led many policymakers, students and the public to question whether universities are truly serving the public good.

How universities can take action

• Universities must actively demonstrate their societal impact through community-driven projects, open-access research and transparent governance.
• Research, innovation and expertise must contribute to solving real-world challenges, taking impact and academic knowledge beyond campus walls.
• Form long-term partnerships with First Nations and Indigenous communities, local governments, civil society and industry to co-develop solutions to societal challenges and strengthen community engagement.
• Develop open knowledge-sharing platforms and policy collaborations to make research more publicly accessible.
• Adopt participatory governance models where rights holders and stakeholders have a voice in decision-making to enhance institutional accountability.

The future of public trust: Universities must transition from their image as isolated academic institutions to being seen as trusted community partners, demonstrating their value through tangible contributions to social progress as well as education.

2. Universities as hubs for lifelong learning

As skills become obsolete faster than ever, traditional degree programmes are no longer sufficient for ensuring long-term career adaptability. Universities must embrace lifelong learning models so individuals can return to reskill, upskill or engage in continuous learning at different stages of their careers.

How universities can take action

• Expand microcredential programmes: short-term, skills-focused certifications allow learners to gain expertise without committing to full degrees.
• Develop lifelong learning memberships: a membership model could offer alumni and professionals continuous access to courses, research and professional development.
• Strengthen employer partnerships: co-designing learning pathways with industry leaders will help ensure that education remains relevant in the job market.
• Integrate ethics, sustainability and civic engagement into curricula: students should graduate with an understanding of social responsibility and impact as well as being ready for the workforce.

The future of lifelong learning: Universities must transition from degree providers to lifelong education partners, creating ecosystems where learning is adaptive, accessible and aligned with industry and societal needs.

3. Ethical leadership: preparing students for responsible decision-making

Leadership requires more than just technical expertise. Pressing, complex global challenges – from climate change to digital governance – demand leaders with integrity, compassion and accountability. Universities must embed ethical leadership principles into education to prepare students for roles where they will be responsible for shaping policies, institutions and industries.

How universities can take action

• Embed ethics and governance into curricula, ensuring that students develop the skills to navigate complex moral dilemmas in business, politics and technology.
• Provide leadership development opportunities through mentorship programmes, civic engagement initiatives and experiential learning projects.
• Enhance transparency and accountability in university governance, ensuring that decision-making reflects ethical best practices.

The future of leadership education: Universities must go beyond producing skilled professionals; they should develop leaders who can think critically, act ethically and create meaningful societal impact.

4. Universities as community anchors built on sustainable development and community integration

Universities can play a crucial role in shaping sustainable, inclusive and affordable environments. However, campus expansion has sometimes contributed to rising housing costs, gentrification and strained community relations. Instead of being isolated spaces, universities must become integrated, sustainable and community-driven hubs.

How universities can take action

• Adopt community-driven land-use strategies: campus spaces should serve both academic and public needs so include such facilities as shared cultural centres, innovation hubs, public-access libraries, and spaces for sport and well-being.
• Develop affordable housing initiatives for students, faculty and underserved community members, using long-term land lease models through university-endowed lands.
• Integrate sustainability principles into campus planning that develops green spaces, transit-oriented planning and low-carbon infrastructure.

The future of university land use: Higher education institutions must see themselves as community partners, not just campus developers, using their land and infrastructure to support equity, sustainability and economic opportunity.

A new vision for higher education

To remain relevant, trusted and impactful, universities must evolve to serve communities beyond degree-focused students, becoming lifelong learning hubs, ethical leadership incubators and engaged community and industry partners. Institutions that embrace this transformation will not only thrive but will shape a more just, informed and sustainable society.

Rahim Somani is vice-president (finance and administration) at the University of Northern British Columbia, Canada.

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