Sustainable Development in Higher Education: The Connotation, Characteristics, and Construction Paths of Sustainability University (Stage 3, 2:35 PM)

• In Event: e-Lightning Ed-Talk Session 18 - Stage 3

Abstract

The sustainable development of higher education requires a transformation in university structures and functions. A sustainability university embeds sustainability principles—coordination and symbiosis—across education, research, operations, and service. It aims to minimize environmental impact while upholding social responsibility and contributing to economic growth. Such universities feature internal pluralism, self-organizing vitality, and balanced structures. Advancing sustainability in education, academics, services, and culture is essential to accelerating the development of sustainability universities. Key strategies include promoting “living” knowledge and functional curricula, fostering timely and autonomous research, emphasizing student-centered learning for positive feedback loops, and building campus integrity to support vibrant academic culture.

Author

• YIJING LYU, Nanjing Normal University