The session started with an introduction to the “Third Mission” concept that represents a significant evolution in the role of universities, moving beyond the two main missions of education and research. It focuses on the increasing demand for universities to contribute to society by effectively utilizing their knowledge and outputs to address growing social and economic challenges. For EHU, the “Third Mission,” which was formally introduced in the EHU Strategic Plan for 2021-2026, did not fully align with the reality of the university’s activities. In fact, EHU’s efforts in both education and research as a university in exile have already been responding to the demands of Belarusian society.
Moreover, as the strategic meeting shows, activities conducted by various Centers and Labs of the EHU, as well as individual projects and collaborations with civil society organizations, have been ongoing for years and satisfy the most advanced model of the Third Mission—the “Ecosystem Model.” This model emphasizes open dialogue and collaboration between the university and various stakeholders. Through such interactions, EHU aims to contribute to positive change by facilitating knowledge exchange and coordinating joint efforts to address the challenges of our time, both in Belarus and for Belarusians who continue their active social lives abroad.
The session also considered the findings of a EHU survey on its impact on the EHU activities conducted in 2021. The survey highlighted EHU’s role in fostering:
- A free and open academic environment;
- Critical thinking skills;
- Independent learning;
- Effective communication;
The survey also identified areas for improvement, such as:
- Strengthening ties with Belarusian civil society;
- Providing more resources for student initiatives;
- Integrating applied skills into the curriculum;
The session concluded with a shared desire among representatives of the academic community to collaborate on further defining the updated notion of the Third Mission of EHU. The new definition will reflect the most significant characteristics of EHU’s Third Mission and will be communicated and presented to all interested parties within the academic community. It will also be implemented in joint initiatives with academic and civil society representatives.
These activities will further contribute to the efforts of the University in Exile, ensuring it remains a forum for academic freedom and critical thinking while maintaining its unwavering commitment to serving the needs of Belarus and the broader regional civic society.
Read more: Survey of impact to the country of origin Belarus by European Humanities University SATIO