Inclusion and Social Mission in Higher Education: Watch the Recording

11 Nov 2026

Higher education has a critical role to play in building more equitable and inclusive societies. While participation in higher education has expanded across the world, significant inequalities in access, experience and outcomes persist. Universities are increasingly expected not only to educate and undertake research, but also to help address social challenges, work in partnership with their communities and ensure that all learners have the opportunity to succeed.

In September, the World Access to Higher Education Network (WAHEN) and the SGroup Think Tank for the Social Mission of Universities (TTSMU) brought together participants from across the globe for the online conference, Inclusion and Social Mission in Higher Education.

The event explored how higher education institutions can advance equity, inclusion and social responsibility through teaching, research, community engagement, partnerships and international collaboration. Discussions highlighted practical examples of widening participation, strengthening student voice, embedding social impact across institutional strategies and creating more inclusive learning environments.

The conference featured perspectives from Africa, Europe, Australia and the Americas, with contributions from a distinguished group of speakers, including:

  • Professor Charles Hopkins, UNESCO Chair, York University (Canada)
  • Ninoslav Šćukanec Schmidt, Institute for the Development of Education (Croatia)
  • Neli Kalinive-Schmieder, Erasmus Student Network
  • Sonal Singh, Centre for Social Justice and Inclusion (Australia)
  • Mo Malele, The Saville Foundation (South Africa)

Alongside many other contributors from across the higher education sector, speakers shared insights into how universities can strengthen their social mission and respond to the challenges and opportunities facing students and communities worldwide.

Watch the Recording

Whether you were unable to attend or would like to revisit the discussions, the full conference recording is now available to watch online.