Social Responsibility In Universities

Social Responsibility in general terms is the obligation for an Entity, Individual or an Organization, to act for the benefit of the society at large. It creates a balance between economic goals and social, cultural, and environmental issues (Enevoldson, 2012). It is a noble act performed by an entity to fulfill societal needs and to ensure development of a strong well-bonded community.

Universities imparting Higher Education are not isolated from the rest of the world and therefore the above definition applies to them as well. A socially responsible university can do a whole lot to ensure a sound application of equality in its domain. If the objectives are aligned properly then the society within, i.e. academia, students, employees; and the

Universities across the UK have over the past few years taken serious consideration and actions relating to social responsibility, whether to implement an ethical framework of rules and regulations or to adopt environmental practices. However it is time for the Universities across the world to demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility. It can be likened to the very famous quote of Lord Hewart -“... it is not merely of some importance but is of fundamental importance, that justice should not only be done, but should manifestly and undoubtedly be seen to be done” (Jacob,

The University of Edinburgh in Scotland has demonstrated its social responsibility by spending £18 million to cut down its energy consumption to help reduce carbon emissions. Despite the large spending, the University is committed to reducing its carbon footprint by 2020 (Sustainability, 2016). The University of Manchester has used its leadership in research for use of advanced materials in various fields, transforming energy systems and making progress in the fields of industrial biotechnology (Research with Impact, 2016). The University of Nottingham has played a great role in developing a sustainable transport plan whether cycling, car sharing, public transport and personalized transport plans, which are proving to be more effective as technology progresses (Sustainable Transport,