Conceptualising the Role of Universities in Transforming Society: Trends and Tools of Traits

Abstract

The universities are a microcosm of the society and are required to contribute towards changing the material conditions of the communities. The concept of transformation of the society is a centrepiece for transformation and transformative leadership that intercept the structural resistance to change and unlock vestiges of development. This study is locating the role of the universities in transforming the society with a deliberate action in downplaying the notion of universities being "white elephants" and "conservative spaces" for the intellectuals. The study positions an argument whether the universities can provide the prerequisites capabilities that resonate with societal transformation agenda. It is a scholarly piece that remains conceptual literature review and analysis of the trends of the universities posture towards transforming the society. The reviews of articles, media releases and policy trajectory to uncover the impact of the posture of universities in transforming the society are foregrounded with the intention to deconstruct the interface of universities and society. The establishment of new pathways for universities to reshape the society with key recommendation being that the universities must create an academic and solution-based intervention to the immediate community for empowerment and for sustainable livelihood. In this regard, education is intended to be for public good.