In a move that could reshape how universities engage with society and drive sustainable development, a recent study published in the journal *Multidisciplinary Adaptive Climate Insights* explores the potential of the “civic university” model as a living lab. The research, led by Rania Rageh, Head of Research Data Science and University Ranking at the Arab Academy for Science, Technology & Maritime Transport, delves into how universities can leverage emerging concepts like the Living Lab and quadruple/quintuple helix frameworks to accelerate progress toward sustainability goals.
Rageh’s work highlights the civic university as an institution that actively integrates itself into the fabric of society, fostering collaboration between academia, industry, government, and civil society. This model, she argues, can serve as a living lab—a real-world testing ground for innovative solutions to societal challenges. “By embracing the living lab concept, universities can create dynamic environments where research, innovation, and societal needs intersect,” Rageh explains. “This approach not only accelerates the development of sustainable solutions but also ensures that these solutions are tailored to the specific needs of communities.”
For the maritime sector, the implications are significant. Universities with strong maritime programs, like the Arab Academy for Science, Technology & Maritime Transport, can use this model to develop and test new technologies and practices that address pressing issues such as decarbonization, digitalization, and safety. For instance, living labs could be established to trial new ship designs, alternative fuels, or digital navigation systems in real-world conditions, providing valuable data and insights for industry stakeholders.
The quadruple and quintuple helix frameworks further enhance this model by emphasizing the importance of collaboration among universities, industry, government, and civil society. In the maritime context, this could mean partnering with shipping companies, port authorities, and environmental organizations to co-create solutions that benefit all parties. “The maritime industry is ripe for innovation, and the civic university model can provide the platform for these innovations to thrive,” Rageh notes. “By working together, we can develop solutions that are not only technologically advanced but also socially and environmentally responsible.”
The commercial opportunities are vast. Universities can attract funding and partnerships by positioning themselves as hubs for maritime innovation. Industry players, in turn, can gain access to cutting-edge research and talent, while governments and civil society can ensure that these innovations align with broader sustainability goals. “This model is a win-win for everyone involved,” Rageh says. “It drives progress, fosters collaboration, and ultimately contributes to a more sustainable future for the maritime sector.”
As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and the need for sustainable development, the civic university model offers a promising pathway for the maritime sector to innovate and adapt. With the insights provided by Rageh’s research, universities and industry stakeholders can work together to create a more sustainable and resilient future for maritime transportation.