The role of universities on forming social inclusive and sustainable environments

This paper explores and emphasises the importance of universities as social and sustainable actors of urban change. In this sense and to better understand this context, the main structure conceived for this paper is composed of an introduction and a brief contextualization of the role of the universities, based on the definition and concepts of University Social Responsibility (USR), Sustainable Development and the University Social Networks. The case study of Mapping San Siro (MSS) is highlighted as an example of the role of universities and its challenges in seeking urban regeneration and more inclusive cities. This case also reinforces the role that universities can play as agents in developing mutual learning between them and communities. As a conclusion, the reflexive thinking presented herein demonstrates how important is the role of universities in co-producing knowledge and in enriching the educational process to achieve changes in society.