On 25 November 2024, UNU will host “Sustainability in Social Contexts: Universities Leading Through the Energy Crisis”, a conversation with Giovanni Molari, Rector of the University of Bologna. This event will start at 18:30 in the 2F Reception Hall at UNU Headquarters in Tokyo.
In times of climate change and energy crisis, universities are called not only to design innovative solutions through education, research, and the dissemination of scientific knowledge, but also to demonstrate responsible action. By shaping the cultural, sociopolitical, and environmental landscapes of the future, universities can remain true to their mission while addressing the pressing challenges of our time.
Giovanni Molari will join UNU Executive and Strategy Officer Sabine Becker-Thierry for a discussion on the role of universities in advancing sustainability. How can universities balance their traditional focus on education and research with the urgent need to lead by example in sustainability initiatives? What are some successful examples of universities driving cultural and sociopolitical changes to advance sustainability? In what ways can universities collaborate with communities and policymakers to amplify their impact on global sustainability efforts?
The UNU Conversation Series aims to foster audience participation; you are encouraged to engage with the speakers during the conversation and at the reception that will follow, where all event attendees are invited to enjoy hors d’oeuvres and drinks while exchanging ideas and making new contacts.
Please note that this event will be in English. Advance registration (by 24 November at 15:00) is required. Please click on the REGISTER button above to access the online registration page.
Please be prepared to present identification at check-in.
About the Speaker
Giovanni Molari, born in Bologna in 1973, is the Rector of the University of Bologna. A Full Professor in Agricultural Machinery and Mechanisation since 2016, he previously held roles as Associate Professor and researcher. He holds a PhD in Materials Engineering from the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia and a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Bologna.
His research focuses on the design and testing of agricultural machinery, with over 150 publications, including 53 indexed in Scopus. He has led national projects, collaborated with industry, and contributed to advancements in biomass energy production. As Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Agricultural Engineering (2014–2018), he oversaw its transition to English, open access, and indexing in Scopus and the Web of Science.
Within the University, he served as Deputy Head and later Director of the Agricultural and Food Sciences Department, as well as a member of the Academic Senate and the Human Resources Committee. As Rector, he combines academic excellence and managerial expertise to guide the University’s strategic development.
