Universities' Social Responsibility (USR) and Sustainable Development: A Conceptual Framework

International Journal of Economics and Management Studies

© 2017 by SSRG - IJEMS Journal

Volume 4 Issue 12

Year of Publication : 2017

Authors : Abla A.H. Bokhari

10.14445/23939125/IJEMS-V4I12P102

How to Cite?

Abla A.H. Bokhari, "Universities' Social Responsibility (USR) and Sustainable Development: A Conceptual Framework," SSRG International Journal of Economics and Management Studies, vol. 4,  no. 12, pp. 8-16, 2017. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23939125/IJEMS-V4I12P102

Abstract:

The concept of social responsibility is no longer confined to charitable and voluntary activity, but it is in fact a broader and more comprehensive concept that comprises solutions for societies economic, social and environmental problems. Moreover, sustainable development cannot be achieved in isolation from the close relationship between higher education and its institutions -namely universities- and society. Universities are considered an essential pillar of society, because they play a pivotal role in elevating awareness regarding social responsibility among its students, staff members and other employees, in a manner that makes them behave as societal personalities professing collective views and not opting to adopt individual thinking. Accordingly, this research paper aims to present a conceptual framework clarifying the role of social responsibility of universities in sustainable development. It addresses the concept of social responsibility and its various aspects; the close relationship between it and sustainable development and the role of universities in strengthening this relationship. At the end, the paper provides number of recommendations that guarantee the enhancement of the role of universities in the social responsibility that is anticipated to achieve and support sustainable development effort.

Keywords:

Social responsibility, universities, higher education Institutions, sustainable development

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