The future of universities in society: A leadership perspective from Michael O. Hengartner

Universities should take seriously the criticism that they have become ivory towers and should reclaim an active place in society. "We have to be here for society, we have a service to provide." 

Hengartner emphasised that each university must focus on its strengths in order to differentiate itself. Being among the best is less important. "People forget that 'best' is not an absolute single scale, but rather that everyone should be the best at what they are doing." That could mean meeting the needs of the region, he said, even without a scientific breakthrough.