Principles and practices for meaningful community engagement in higher education

This concluding chapter synthesizes the key themes explored throughout the book, focusing on how universities can meaningfully engage with their local communities. It emphasizes the growing political and institutional emphasis on civic engagement, particularly through frameworks like the Civic University Network, which promotes principles of Place, Public, Partnerships, and Measurement and Impact.

Key Themes and Insights:
Universities as Anchor Institutions
Universities are increasingly expected to act as anchor institutions that contribute to the economic, social, and cultural well-being of their localities. This expectation is reinforced by government policies like the Levelling Up White Paper.

Tensions Between Values and Metrics
While frameworks such as the Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF), Research Excellence Framework (REF), and Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) aim to measure impact, there is concern that they may lead to tokenistic engagement. However, the authors argue these frameworks can be reimagined as opportunities for innovation if approached critically and collaboratively.

Role of Community and Youth Work Programmes
These programmes are highlighted as exemplars of participatory, needs-led engagement. Their methodologies—rooted in social justice, inclusion, and mutual learning—offer valuable models for broader university-community collaboration.

Participatory and Collaborative Approaches
The book calls for a shift from neoliberal, market-driven models of higher education to collaborative, relational practices that prioritize equity, co-creation, and long-term partnerships.

Accountability and Institutional Change
A recurring theme is the need to hold universities accountable for their civic responsibilities. This includes embedding community engagement into institutional strategies and recognizing the contributions of pracademics—those who bridge academic and practitioner roles.

Moving Forward
The authors advocate for:

Critical engagement with policy frameworks.
Empowering community voices in shaping university agendas.
Sustained investment in community partnerships.
Institutional support for staff and students engaged in civic work.