Arab Educational Information Network

This paper exemplifies the role of universities in contributing to community development and social welfare by getting involved in activities beyond the academic realm. It highlights the engagement of universities in social responsibility (SR) and civic roles taking the experience of Ahfad University for Women (AUW) as an example. The aim is to develop more understanding of the role of universities in social responsibility (SR) and civic engagement (CE), and enhance learning from real experiences. The paper starts by exhibiting some theoretical aspects about SR and CE and the contextual factors within which AUW strives for both academic excellence and meeting its social commitments. This is followed by highlighting the evolution of AUW, with focus on its mission, vision, philosophy and goals. Further, the paper presents the University contribution in achieving MDG 2 and how the activities carried by AUW contribute in achieving education for all, as an approach to SR&CE. The rest of the paper focuses on presentations of the activities and practices of AUW towards achieving social responsibility and civic engagement, with some practical experiences of projects recently implemented by AUW within the frame of SR&CE.Finally, the paper highlights some of the challenges facing AUW while assuming its role in SR & CE. (Published Abstract)