Determinants of Sustainable and Responsible Citizens: A University Social Responsibility Perspective

Abstract

Universities play a key role towards sustainable development of the society. They are responsible for shaping the personality and culture of young generations. They make future generations responsible. Responsible citizens are those who contribute positively to society. They are capable of reacting to societal challenges  by adhering to norms and traditions, ultimately leading to responsible actions. Universities are responsible for transmitting responsible behaviour that stands vital to develop responsible citizens. The study used non probability sampling technique to retrieve responses from 321 students across various parts of Kerala. Primary data were collected with the help of questionnaires.  The study sheds insights on various aspects of social responsibility such civic, ethical, environmental and research of universities. The study also contributes on the strong positive perception of these factors on USR. Even though there is strong positive influence of factors towards USR perceptions, the extent to which these factors make them responsible is a matter to be explored. This study offers insights to how the education system should be reformed to meet the expectation of the goal of sustainable development.