On the maturity of social responsibility and sustainability integration in higher education institutions: Descriptive criteria and conceptual framework

This paper is intended to foster debate on the relevance of social responsibility (SR) and sustainability maturity integration in education for sustainable development goals to be fully achieved. Several contributions are made. First, a set of criteria for the identification, description, and categorisation of the maturity of SR/sustainability in higher education institutions (HEIs) is provided. Therefore, the basis for the development of reliable tools for the assessment of the effectiveness of responsibility teaching in HEI’s are posed. The theoretical value of the paper also results from proposing an integrated conceptual framework of SR/sustainability maturity integration in HEIs, which allows for future empirical research in the field. HEI’s management and educators may also find areas where improvements in the effectiveness of their commitment towards social responsibility and sustainability are advisable and identify measures with the greatest viability and potential. Finally, academia executives and policymakers may derive policy indications for the enhancement of the university system and the development of policies that would facilitate HEIs embracing Education for Sustainable Development.