The October issue (Volume 30, No. 2/Oct. 2025) of the biannual IAU Horizons journal hosts an article by the Rector West University of Timisoara (UVT), Prof. Dr. Marilen Gabriel Pirtea, published under the title "Reconfiguring trust in higher education: dimensions, challenges, perspectives/ways forward" (on p. 31).
Flagship publication of the oldest and most prestigious association on the internationalization of universities, International Association of Universities (IAU), the biannual journal IAU Horizons has a special topic in each issue – In the foreground –, put into debate throughout the international community, with the most valuable approaches being selected. For this issue, the magazine investigated the dramatically topical issue of Dimensions of trust in higher educationThus, the contributors' approaches also prefaced the anniversary conference at the University of Rwanda – IAU 75, held under the auspices of Building trust in higher education.
In the article in the recent edition of the IAU Horizons magazine, the UVT rector provides a brief analysis of how the university demonstrates its commitment to public service (excerpt):
“Higher education must reorient itself towards its civic purpose: to produce not only workers but also informed citizens, ethical leaders and resilient communities. A university that demonstrates its commitment to public service will earn the public’s trust. Ensuring equitable access to education is another element of building trust in universities. Expanding access to higher education, ensuring affordability and addressing structural inequalities are essential to restoring trust. This includes not only admissions and financial aid, but also creating inclusive campuses where all students feel included. Increasing transparency and accountability is another, given that today’s trust requires visibility.
Universities should adopt clear standards of governance, ethical conduct and fiscal responsibility. Honest communication not only of positive outcomes but also of processes, failures and improvements can greatly enhance trust. Promoting intellectual diversity is essential in the complex world we live in. The culture of critical inquiry must be protected and expanded. Encouraging debate, embracing multiple perspectives and resisting ideological rigidity will strengthen universities’ commitment to the pursuit of truth over conformity. A truism of the education system, continuous investment in teaching quality is also a cornerstone of trust in the higher education system. Students often judge universities not by research rankings but by their daily experience in the classroom. Supporting excellence in teaching, mentoring and personalised learning helps build interpersonal and epistemic trust. Ultimately, partnerships with local communities, civic organizations, and industries help universities remain relevant and responsive. Service-learning, citizen science, and outreach programs help bridge the gap between campus and society.”
At the end of the article, the UVT rector concluded:
“In a time of global uncertainty, trust in higher education must be regained – again and again, day after day – through sustained efforts in the areas of institutional culture, governance, pedagogy and civic engagement, leading to transparent practices, inclusive values and tangible contributions to the common good.”
The oldest association on the internationalization of universities, the International Association of Universities (IAU), was founded in 1950, under the auspices of UNESCO, of which it is currently an associate partner, also having the status of a participant in the Council of Europe and a special consultant to the UN Economic and Special Council.
The most influential global voice in higher education today, the IAU (with approximately 600 members from over 120 countries) coordinates and promotes the development of higher education policies and practices that respect diverse perspectives, promote social responsibility, and contribute to the development of a sustainable future. At the same time, by promoting and strengthening the capacity of higher education to connect diverse peoples, generate and disseminate new knowledge, create perspectives, and find sustainable solutions to local and global challenges, the IAU aims to contribute to peace and human development.
