The Call for Abstracts and Registrations for the International USR Summit 2026 is now open. The Summit, themed “University Social Responsibility: Global Challenges and Collective Action”, will be held from 22 to 23 October 2026 at Sichuan University.
As a biennial event of the University Social Responsibility Network (USRN), the International USR Summit has become an important global platform for universities to exchange ideas, share practical experiences in university social responsibility (USR), and build consensus for future collaboration.
Hosted by Sichuan University, the 2026 Summit will focus on how higher education institutions can respond to increasingly complex global challenges through socially responsible engagement, cross-sector collaboration, and collective action. At a time when the world is facing climate risks, public health emergencies, social inequalities, and growing demands for sustainable development, universities are called upon not only to generate knowledge, but also to translate knowledge into meaningful action for society. The Summit aims to foster in-depth dialogue and international cooperation on the role of universities in addressing these challenges and advancing sustainable development.
Summit Sub-themes:
- The Roles and Actions of Higher Education Institutions in Disaster Governance and Climate Adaptation
- Capacity Building and International Collaborative Development of Global Emergency Medical Teams (EMTs)
- Experience Sharing and Future Prospects for Collaboration in University Social Responsibility Practices in Higher Education
- Other Related Topics – Submissions that address other issues relevant to university social responsibility, sustainable development, and the social role of higher education are also welcome.
Scholars, experts, practitioners, and professionals from universities and related sectors worldwide are cordially invited to submit abstracts and participate in the Summit.
There is no registration fee for this Summit. Please note that participants will be responsible for their own accommodation and transportation expenses.
Important Dates
| Summit Date | 22 – 23 October 2026 |
| Abstract Submission Deadline | 20 August 2026
(23:59 Beijing time, GMT+8) |
| Notification of Abstract Acceptance | 5 September 2026 |
| Summit Registration Deadline | 30 September 2026 |
About the International USR Summit
The International USR Summit is a flagship event of the University Social Responsibility Network. Held biennially, the Summit is hosted in turn by USRN member institutions. It brings together leaders and representatives from higher education to exchange ideas, foster partnerships, and share insights on advancing university social responsibility, generating social impact, and contributing to sustainable development.
Click to read more about the past USR Summits.
