Ibn Tofail University, in collaboration with the Ministry of Higher Education, Scientific Research and Innovation, is organizing “The Second National Conference on the Social Responsibility of Universities” under the theme “University social responsibility: a factor of resilience and inclusion”. This major event is a unique forum bringing together renowned experts, researchers, and academics to highlight and discuss the crucial role of social responsibility within universities, with an emphasis on their civic role, within the framework of the ESRI 2030 Pact.
The Second National Conference on the Social Responsibility of Universities offers a space for reflection and sharing ideas on how higher education institutions can better serve the community, by integrating societal concerns into their mission and adopting an even more inclusive approach. That is, adapting to current and future challenges and contributing significantly to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) established by the United Nations; and, thus, help foster resilience.
In this sense, the ESRI Pact infuses a new dynamic into higher education in Morocco by proposing a university model focused on innovation, scientific research aligned with international standards, and the enhancement of the role of the territories as levers of economic, social and environmental progress.
Universities can thus serve as models, as they train future generations. By adopting sustainable internal policies and practices (RSU), universities embody positive values and standards that inspire not only students, who will become future leaders and agents of change, but also various external stakeholders (civil society, NGOs, etc.). This internal model reinforces social and sustainable development commitment, and encourages students to integrate these principles into their professional and personal careers, thus making a significant contribution to the anchoring and deployment of sustainable development.
This second edition of the national conference on the social responsibility of universities will also be an opportunity for the participants to consider the concrete role of universities during recent events, such as natural disasters, with a particular focus on the recent Al Haouz earthquake and its implications. The aim is to reflect on how universities can become drivers of resilience for their regions, ready to act in the event of a crisis, support affected communities, and contribute to reconstruction and sustainable development.
The conference is also intended as a forum for the exchange of experiences, best practices and innovative ideas. It brings together academics, researchers, students, government officials and other stakeholders, to foster constructive exchanges and discussions around key issues such as:
– Explaining the RSU component of the PACTE-ESRI, its issues and challenges;
– Understanding the RSU as a field of societal performance for the university;
– Discovering, enhancing, and understanding the scope of current practices at Moroccan universities in terms of social commitment and sustainable development;
– Presenting the Moroccan universities’ experiential richness while inquiring and exchanging around some of the foundations of RSU policy;
– Demonstrating the solidarity shown by the Moroccan university system during major human and social events, such as the Al-Haouz earthquake (2023).
This event is also dedicated to raising awareness of environmental challenges through local education programs and climate-focused campaigns. As part of its commitment to sustainability, the event featured discussion panels on climate change risks, impacts, mitigation strategies, impact reduction, and early warning systems. Through these panels, the event engaged students, faculty, and local residents, equipping them with knowledge and tools to respond proactively to climate challenges. This approach underscores the university’s role in fostering environmental stewardship and aligns with its mission to contribute actively to the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in building resilience against climate-related risks.
The event will be a learning experience in terms of innovative ideas and collaboration opportunities. Together, we will explore the vital role of universities in addressing the challenges of contemporary society, and how they can contribute to a sustainable and equitable society, in line with the core principles of the ESRI 2030 Pact.
