Purpose-driven universities are redefining success – fostering student growth, staff fulfilment, environmental stewardship and societal impact – while positioning themselves as value-led leaders in an evolving global education landscape
Purpose is the underlying reason for existence – it answers the question, “why do we exist?” For individuals, it’s the personal motivation or calling that gives life direction and meaning. For organisations, purpose goes beyond profit; it defines the core impact they aim to make in the world and guides their decisions, culture and actions. A strong purpose inspires, unites and drives people towards a shared, meaningful goal.
In the context of higher education, Yein Oh, college counsellor at Utahloy International School Guangzhou in China, explains that purpose can be understood through two distinct models: the transactional model and the transformational model.
The transactional model is structured to equip students with the practical skills needed to achieve traditionally recognised success, such as obtaining a well-paying job or esteemed role. In contrast, the transformational model cultivates individuals who are capable of critical thinking, independent action and thoughtful engagement with complex issues.
Beyond students, three other essential elements – employees, the environment and broader society – play a crucial role in shaping a transformative, purpose-driven model in higher education.
To excel in the transformational model, institutions must ask reflective questions such as: “How can we foster a nurturing environment where students and employees can truly thrive? How can we contribute to global sustainability? How can we make a meaningful and lasting impact on society?” With these considerations as a foundation, we delve deeper into each element, crafting actionable strategies that advance the commitment to social, environmental and human well-being.
Students, employees, environment and society
Students
In an increasingly values-driven world, students are no longer choosing universities based solely on rankings, prestige or employment statistics. Many are now looking for institutions that reflect their own beliefs, passions and long-term aspirations.
In an article for 探花视频, Sushant Shrestha, an international student from Nepal studying at Tongji University, highlights how the THE Impact Rankings can help students identify universities that align with their personal values and uncover lesser-known institutions that might be a better fit.
While metrics like rankings and salary data still matter, a university’s purpose speaks to students’ hearts, ambitions and ideals. It tells them why they should choose the institution, not just what they can receive from it. For today’s generation, there is a growing emphasis on understanding and connecting with the reason why.?
Employees
For faculty and staff to thrive, they must feel that their work is meaningful and aligned with a greater mission. A purposeful institution prioritises the well-being, development and empowerment of its employees, cultivating a sense of belonging, shared vision and intrinsic motivation.
Similarly, higher education institutions that have a clear and authentic purpose are well-positioned to attract high-quality faculty who are looking for alignment between their personal values and their professional aspirations.
In an for 探花视频, Nathalie L'Huillier, vice-chair of EHL Certification Commission Certification and accreditation manager for higher education, explored how a quality culture fosters a supportive environment that increases faculty and staff satisfaction, empowering them to improve their teaching, participate actively in research and scholarship, and contribute significantly to the institution’s success. This, in turn, attracts top-tier talent, driving continuous improvement in educational standards.
Environment
Higher education institutions have a significant environmental footprint, and it requires intentional efforts to address their impact. The importance of purpose means that institutions are expected to not only teach sustainability but to live it, integrating sustainability into operations, curricula and campus culture.
The THE Impact Rankings identify and celebrate universities from 125 countries and territories that excel in the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Western Sydney University (WSU), which ranked first globally for three consecutive years (2022-2024), has received international acclaim for its comprehensive sustainability initiatives, seamlessly integrating environmental and social responsibility into its institutional framework.
WSU achieved Climate Active certification as a carbon-neutral organisation in 2023 and aims to become by 2029. In its decadal strategy, , WSU presented a four-part initiative that articulated its institutional vision, guided by its C.O.R.E governance framework: curriculum, operations, research and engagement.
WSU’s dedication to sustainability has earned recognition from numerous environmental organisations and strongly resonates with the values and passions for many students globally.
Society
Beyond their campuses, higher education institutions hold immense potential to influence societal progress. Universities are often seen as catalysts for change, addressing complex societal issues through education, research and community engagement.
The pioneered by Temple University in Philadelphia, is rooted in the belief that society becomes stronger when higher education is broadly accessible and fosters opportunities for individuals – often separated by deep social divides – to engage as equals.
By bringing together incarcerated individuals (“inside students”) and non-incarcerated students (“outside students”) in meaningful, informed dialogue, the programme creates powerful, transformative learning experiences. These interactions not only deepen understanding but also inspire participants to take active roles in addressing issues such as crime, justice and broader social challenges.
Being purposeful in higher education means committing to a deeper reason for existence – one that extends beyond academic metrics and career outcomes. For students, it creates a values-aligned environment that nurtures personal growth, critical thinking and a sense of meaning. For employees, purpose fosters a strong institutional culture where individuals feel engaged, empowered and aligned with a shared mission. Purposeful institutions also take responsibility for the environment, embedding sustainability into operations and education, and lead by example in addressing global challenges. Within society, universities serve as agents of progress, contributing to equity, civic engagement and long-term societal well-being.
This clarity of purpose enhances a university’s attractiveness – bringing in students who seek meaning in their education, faculty who want to make a difference, and partners who value long-term impact. It also strengthens the institution’s operational performance by improving brand reputation, increasing stakeholder trust and guiding values-based decision making, while attracting investment, funding and collaboration opportunities.
Ultimately, purpose becomes a strategic differentiator, enabling higher education institutions to thrive while delivering meaningful, lasting contributions to the world.
