The new episode of STARS EU Highlights positions universities as drivers of social change and regional development in Europe

The third episode of the video podcast STARS EU Highlights, which explores European values for innovation in education, examines how higher education institutions—particularly those located outside major capitals—are strengthening their connection with the surrounding socio-economic environment. Titled From Campuses to Communities: Universities Driving Social Change in Europe, the programme reflects on the capacity of these institutions to create meaningful impact on citizens.

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The guest on this ocassion is Dorina Gjipali, lecturer at the Faculty of Political Science & Law at the Alexander Moisiu University of Durrës (Albania), one of the nine member universities of the STARS EU Alliance. Gjipali discusses the role higher education institutions play in building more inclusive, sustainable societies that are engaged with their communities.

Connecting knowledge and community

 

The interview emphasises the importance of strengthening the link between academic activity and the real needs of society. In this context, Gjipali highlights the so-called “third mission” of higher education institutions: a dimension that complements teaching and research and focuses on generating tangible and measurable benefits for society.

 

This approach translates into initiatives that open universities to their communities through collaborative programmes with local administrations, social organisations, or businesses. Examples include volunteering projects, civic education activities, and university legal clinics providing free legal advice to individuals with limited resources.

The transformative role of students

A central element of this podcast is the significance of student participation in such initiatives. Through community projects, volunteering programmes, and educational activities, students not only develop professional skills but also strengthen their commitment to society.

Gjipali also points out that these experiences allow young people to acquire academic knowledge, develop as responsible citizens, gain awareness of social challenges, and feel empowered to contribute to improving their surroundings.

Cooperation to tackle common challenges

The episode also underscores the importance of alliances between European academic institutions, such as STARS EU, which promotes the exchange of best practices and cooperation in areas such as digital transition, environmental sustainability, and social inclusion. Through these collaborative networks, participating institutions seek to enhance their impact on the regions where they are located, thereby contributing to sustainable regional development in Europe.

With this new episode, STARS EU Highlights emphasises the role of higher education institutions as key actors in building more participatory, innovative societies that are closely connected to the needs and demands of their communities and populations.