Higher education based on cooperation and interdisciplinarity has a key role in a global sustainable development

Abstract

Purpose: To highlight that, for higher education (HE) to fulfil its role and provide societies with the required knowledge and competencies that will enable a sustainable future, through research, education and campus operations, it needs to cooperate and promote interdisciplinarity within the sector and with society at large. Design/methodology/approach: This study is a follow-up on the author´s presentation, as President for the International Association of Universities (IAU), at the IAUP triennial conference 2021. It is not presenting outcomes of a specific research project but rather a personal experience and reflections on challenges and opportunities debated at global HE conferences, national and international seminars, IAU publications and global surveys. Findings: There are many publications on challenges and opportunities when it comes to developing and capitalizing on the social responsibility of HE for a sustainable development. However, there is a lack of discussion on internal institutional responsibilities and support for the societal value of HE beyond the sector. Originality/value: This is the personal view of the author and builds on a long experience as scientist and academic leader.