This paper proposes a definition of social innovation in education (Maldonado-Mariscal & Schröder, 2023) and examines its transformative potential in higher education. Through historical and contemporary analysis, it explores how universities have evolved from a focus on teaching and research to a 'third mission' that incorporates social responsibility and civic engagement (Breznitz & Feldmann, 2012). Initially framed around economic contributions, this third mission has expanded to address broader societal challenges. We introduce the concept of the 'engaged university', which is particularly relevant in the Global South, where institutions act as regional change agents through knowledge and technology transfer (Appe et al., 2017). Universities are increasingly seen as spaces for activism and multi-directional knowledge exchange with communities (Loorbach & Wittmayer, 2024), highlighting the importance of co-creating knowledge with society. This collaborative approach fosters innovative educational practices that respond to contemporary global challenges. In addition, we present a case study that illustrates how universities can drive social innovation in education. Overall, this paper emphasises the crucial role of universities in fostering social change.
Appe, S., Rubaii, N., Castro, L. D., & Capobianco, S. (2017). The concept and context of the engaged university in the Global South: Lessons from Latin America to guide a research agenda. Journal of higher education outreach and engagement, 21(2), 7-36.
Breznitz, S.M., Feldman, M.P. (2012). The engaged university. J Technol Transf, 37, 139–157 https://doi.org/10.1007/s10961-010-9183-6
Loorbach, D. A., & Wittmayer, J. (2024). Transforming universities: Mobilizing research and education for sustainability transitions at Erasmus University Rotterdam, The Netherlands. Sustainability Science, 19(1), 19-33.
Maldonado-Mariscal, K. and Schröder, A. (2023) Social innovation in education. In Howaldt, J.; Kaletka, (Eds.). (2023). Encyclopedia of Social Innovation. Edward Elgar Publishing. Pp. 221-226. https://doi.org/10.4337/9781800373358.ch39
