Public Engagement and Social Impact

Strategic Collaboration

VSB-TUO plays a key role in the development of society, not only by providing higher education and advancing scientific knowledge but also by contributing to the development of industrial partners, public institutions, and the non-profit sector—particularly in the region where it operates. This impact extends beyond Ostrava and the Moravian-Silesian Region to include other campuses where the University operates. In particular, the University's collaboration with municipal and regional authorities, stakeholders, associations, and other organisations is crucial for achieving their shared sustainable development goals. VSB-TUO has long supported entrepreneurship and innovation in the Region, creating job opportunities for its graduates, many of whom secure positions with higher added value. This contributes to the prosperity of the city and enhances its attractiveness to investors. Beyond these activities, the University works on strengthening its scientific capacities by significantly expanding its international research teams.

Intermediate goals

Increase the level of collaboration with partners, including government institutions, industrial entities, and municipal authorities, to address specific challenges related to the sustainable development of the Region.
Strengthen ties with key national players, such as ministries, research institutions, and other educational institutions, to develop strategies and projects focused on sustainable development.
Develop and enhance global partnerships with universities and institutions worldwide to jointly contribute to solving global sustainability challenges.
Actively integrate sustainability into the University's strategic planning processes, not only at the theoretical level but also through practical implementation, considering key international, national, and regional documents and strategies.
Be a socially responsible institution.

Implementation measures

Actively seeking and developing new and existing partnerships with regional institutions, government organisations, and industrial partners to identify specific projects and initiatives focused on sustainable development.
Fostering multidisciplinary collaboration that allows the connection of various fields of expertise and approaches to address complex challenges.
Creating opportunities for students and employees to engage in projects and activities with social impact (e.g., Studentopolis).
Reflecting on the alignment of projects with sustainable development goals within the internal Project and Contract Record System (EPZ).

Tools (indicators)

Overview of active collaborations documented in "VSB-TUO Membership in Organisations, Associations, and Alliances."
Number of R&D projects focused on applied research and collaboration with companies.
Number of projects focused on collaboration with the public sector.
Overview of projects aligned with sustainable development goals, i.e., projects fulfilling sustainability goals (to be introduced in EPZ as an optional field starting in 2024, and later made mandatory according to the issued document).
Membership in consortia such as the Fraunhofer Innovation Platform for Applied Artificial Intelligence for Materials & Manufacturing at VSB – Technical University of Ostrava (FIP-AI@VSB-TUO), U!REKA, and others.

Responsibility

Vice-Rector for Strategy and Cooperation
Vice-Rector for Science and Research

Alignment with SDGs (1–17)

University Life

The University plays not only the role of an academic centre but also becomes a key ally in the development and strengthening of the community. With a wide range of services for students, staff, and the general public, the University moves beyond traditional education, becoming an organism that brings together diverse interests and needs. The campus features modern sports facilities, quality accommodation, and conference spaces that are easily accessible and open for both academic purposes and public events. An emphasis on culture, art, and the preservation of technical heritage is an integral part of the University environment. The Poruba campus is open to the public and serves as a bridge between the University and the local community, providing access to a rich cultural and artistic programme. VSB-TUO thus demonstrates its commitment not only to providing top-quality education but also to supporting the cultural and educational development of the Region. The University Museum and galleries, along with libraries and a variety of events, form a dynamic centre for students, staff, and the public, promoting an ongoing dialogue between science, art, and society.

Intermediate goals

Support for cultural heritage and traditions.
Highlighting and maintaining artwork on the University campus.
Support for sustainable housing for students and staff in University dormitories.
Collaboration with municipalities, stakeholders, and organisations which the University is part of.

Implementation measures

Investments in the restoration of historical landmarks on the campus.
Increasing awareness and promotion of the University choir and orchestra.
Leveraging knowledge and long-standing expertise in materials science for the renovation of cultural monuments.
Educating students, employees, and the public on sustainable development.
Actively seeking new relationships and strengthening existing ones with key stakeholders.
Identification and implementation of projects with surrounding municipalities.