Seeking a sustainable future – the role of university

This theoretical and critical article explores the crucial issue of the role played by university in contributing and helping societies from the developed and developing to develop the basis for a sustainable future. It critically reviews the impact of the market economy on functioning and role of universities. The universities are increasingly perceived as failing to reduce inequalities and contribute to the development of a sustainable future. The main objective of the article is to initiate a social debate aimed at exploring and better understanding the implications of the choices being made for the future development of scientific activities, education, research, transfer and innovation.