Our key note presentation will focus on the role of Higher Education in developing society though engagement with civic society (third sector). A key function of Technological Universities is to serve the community and public interest by (i) developing strong social and cultural links with the community in the region in which its campuses are located, and (ii) fostering effective relationships with organisations involved in regional development – contributing to economic, cultural, social and scientific development of the State. This webinar will focus on how universities can contribute to inclusive, sustainable and empowered communities by educating young people to participate actively in civil society.

We will also provide an overview of a new Active Citizenship module that aims to educate students in key concepts related to citizenship; encourage students to get actively involved in their communities to achieve personal development; and to further civic goals. The module is influenced by thought-leaders, including Raghuram Rajan, author of the Third Pillar, The Revival of Community in a Polarised World, Paul Collier John Kay, authors of Greed is Dead: Politics after Individualism

The Transform EDU team will also provide an overview of findings from case-study research on civic engagement and community development in South Dublin.