Introduction

Humanity stands at a critical moment of survival and continuity in history. In varying ways, and to varying extent, most people are living in ways that are ecologically, economically, socially, politically, culturally and personally unsustainable.  How can universities nurture awareness and commitment of our future generations to be personally, collectively and institutionally engaged for a sustainable now and future?  While universities have to produce graduates who have skills to operate effectively in a globally competitive environment, it is also widely recognized that its fundamental challenge is to provide an ethical knowledge base responsive to societal needs, and contribute to the public good.  Indeed the complexities of our unsustainable societies can present new opportunities (as well as challenges) for universities to reclaim their relevance and social responsibility to society.

Various attempts in different parts of the world have started to address these concerns.  An effective and high impact approach is the engagement of universities with communities. Engagement goes beyond outreach and extension or service as universities seek mutually beneficial relationships with communities to address communities’ issues and needs (and not just universities’ agendas), where there is commitment to democratic partnerships guided by mutual respect.  Engagement brings mutual learning, reciprocity and discovery in the co-creation of knowledge with all partners.   
 

This Conference aims to revisit the missions of universities and to explore ways of making this engagement more meaningful, inclusive and sustainable. In order that universities can continue to protect our planet as well as serve the public good, sustainability issues will also be addressed. The Conference will also explore ways to create an environment within universities that is conducive for serious engagement to take place and to flourish.



Malaysia In Brief