Back to School: Education for a Better Humanity

September is typically marked by the key theme of 'back to school,' becoming a significant aspect of the lives of young people and their parents.

Education is, without a doubt, one of the fundamental pillars for the progress of any society and its importance transcends the simple acquisition of technical or theoretical knowledge. It is the basis on which values, ethics and citizenship are built. In the current context, where the world faces unprecedented challenges, such as the climate crisis and growing social inequalities, education emerges as a vital tool to shape a more conscious, responsible civilization committed to the common good.

In this context, university education plays a crucial role in the development of citizens prepared to face the complex challenges of the twenty-first century. It is not just about training competent professionals, but about creating responsible leaders, capable of making decisions that consider the social and environmental impact of their actions. Universities have a responsibility to instill in their students a deep understanding of global problems, encouraging them to seek innovative solutions that promote sustainability and equity. Business schools, such as CATOLICA-LISBON, have an obligation to impart knowledge in a way that tomorrow's leaders understand that Profit, People and Planet can indeed live in perfect harmony.

Education, especially higher education, also plays a central role in shaping ethical values and promoting respect for the great challenges we face as a civilisation. The climate crisis, for example, cannot be dissociated from education, higher education institutions must put sustainability at the center of their curricula, preparing students to be not only consumers of knowledge, but also active agents in the preservation of the planet.

Likewise, education must be a vector for promoting social justice. Growing inequality is a threat to the social fabric and global stability, and universities must educate their students and executives to understand the roots of these inequalities and to work towards solutions that promote a more equitable distribution of resources. Empathy, respect and solidarity are values that must be instilled from an early age and reinforced throughout academic and professional life. More than ever, Universities must be spaces where diversity, critical thinking and social responsibility are cultivated.

Investing in education, and in particular in university education is investing in a better future for humanity.

Have a great and impactful week!

Nuno Moreira da Cruz Dean of Executive Education at Católica Lisbon School of Business and Economics