The University of Management and Technology (UMT) hosted representatives from nearly 30 non-governmental organizations in a collaborative session aimed at strengthening civic engagement through academia–community partnerships. The gathering brought together educators, civil society practitioners, and institutional leaders committed to advancing purpose-driven social initiatives.
The session was organized by the Sustainable Development Initiative (SDI) under the Office of Public Affairs (OPA) at UMT and focused on enhancing the Civics and Community Engagement (CEE) course. Discussions centered on better structuring and deepening course activities to ensure stronger alignment between classroom learning and real-world community needs.
Participants highlighted the importance of connecting academic instruction with grassroots experience, emphasizing that effective civic education requires direct engagement with communities. The exchange of ideas reflected a shared commitment to collaboration, with NGO practitioners offering insights from the field and educators exploring ways to integrate these perspectives into student learning.
Speakers noted that such partnerships play a vital role in shaping socially responsible graduates by allowing students to experience citizenship as a lived practice rather than a theoretical concept. The interaction also provided an opportunity for civil society organizations to engage with academic institutions in building sustainable, impact-oriented initiatives.
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The session concluded with a reaffirmation of UMT’s commitment to fostering meaningful collaborations with civil society, reinforcing the university’s role as a platform where education, community service, and civic responsibility converge.
