Responsible University: In Search of HR and Leadership Solutions

Abstract

We define a responsible university here as an institution that carries out quality research and teaching that responds to the needs of society and aims at solving certain global problems of humankind, while venerating the fundamental freedom of science. Especially researchers are crucial for accomplishment of these goals. By describing development projects at the University of Eastern Finland (UEF), we focus on how a university can foster strategic aims towards solving global problems, while becoming more responsible in the process by the means of HR measures. The chapter describes HR ideas found in the course of the iterative and interactive development of leadership and recruitment processes. We present a model that sheds light on key issues in leadership and recruitment in the aim of becoming a responsible university. The model also draws together the outcomes of the development projects described. The model was discussed with, and was approved by, the academic leaders at the UEF.

Complexity, Resilience, and Human Resource Management: Illustration from Nordic Higher Education

“…However, the fundamental principle of academic freedom is still culturally grounded, and in some cases (e.g., the Nordics), it is anchored in legislation. Simply put, the tension between accountability and academic freedom has led to a situation in which European researchers are free to study whatever topic they wish, but competitive funding is increasingly geared toward certain topics deemed to be socially relevant (Kaldeway 2018;Kekäle et al 2017).…”

“…In recent decades, European HEIs have increasingly been seen as a part of the innovation chain, producing innovations (and key employees) for industry and business sectors (Goddard et al 2016). The climate crisis has brought about an emphasis on yet another aspect of social relevance: seeking solutions to global challenges (Kekäle & Varis 2019).…”