ENHANCE Conversations 2021: Universities Driving Sustainable Transformation in COVID Recovery
European universities are at the forefront of shaping sustainable solutions in the post-pandemic recovery. In summer 2021, EU member states submitted national plans for the EU recovery fund, allocating resources to modernise campuses, reduce energy footprints, and lower maintenance costs. In parallel, the European Commission prepared a Council Recommendation on education for environmental sustainability, aiming to embed sustainability in education, research, and interuniversity cooperation.
On this backdrop, the ENHANCE Conversations 2021 explored how universities can foster technical and social innovations that support a 21st-century development paradigm.
Event Overview
The hybrid event featured two keynote speeches and a panel discussion, introduced by journalist Jan-Martin Wiard.
Keynote 1: Prof. Maja Göpel – “Resilient Societies and the Purpose of Technological Progress”
Prof. Göpel highlighted the need for new social narratives to guide resilient societies. She explained how small, local initiatives can collectively drive systemic change, creating what she calls “radical, incremental change.”
Keynote 2: Prof. Asgeir Tomasgard – “Multidisciplinary Research at the Intersection of Technology and Social Sciences”
Prof. Tomasgard emphasised the role of universities in regional sustainability transformations, providing knowledge, methodological expertise, and critical reflection to support societal transitions.
Panel Discussion: Sustainable Transformation in COVID Recovery
Panelists included:
Prof. Maja Göpel, The New Institute
Prof. Asgeir Tomasgard, NTNU Energy Transition Initiative
Prof. Michał Zdziarski, Wheelstair / University of Warsaw
Dima Yankova, PhD Candidate, INGENIO (CSIC-UPV)
The discussion highlighted that universities alone cannot drive regional sustainable development. Instead, they should collaborate closely with industry and local actors, leveraging research, practical expertise, and innovation networks. Panelists emphasised knowledge transfer, collaborative projects, and student-led initiatives as key mechanisms for promoting sustainability.
Watch the Recordings
All keynote speeches and panel sessions are available on the ENHANCE Alliance YouTube channel, allowing viewers to revisit the event highlights.
The event underscored the critical role of universities in combining technical innovation with social responsibility to address global challenges and support post-pandemic recovery.
