The concept of a porous campus model has gained increased traction in recent years thanks to a growing number of universities that have popularised it. One renowned international university that is embracing and advocating porous campuses is the University of Bristol, UK, which has well integrated industry collaboration into its academic programmes. 

On the local front, HELP University Malaysia follows a similar pathway by focusing on collaboration to develop digital agility and entrepreneurial skills among its students. While these universities are leading by example, the question that begs to be answered remains how and whether universities can adapt to meet the fast-changing demands of business in a sustainable, ethical way.

As the porous campus concept is about bridging higher education with societal needs, producing a responsive education system that can address the evolving global economy will rely on building technological hubs and promoting entrepreneurship. In breaking down traditional academic boundaries, students are conditioned to engage with professionals across various sectors, to embrace an interdisciplinary approach that ensures they are well-prepared for the complexities of today’s industries.

Founder of HELP University Paul Chan views universities as not just academic centres but contributors to nation-building. With a vision that is deeply rooted in creating what he terms a social business enterprise’, Chan says universities like HELP can play a critical role in fostering innovation and supporting economic growth, particularly in the rural areas through this porous campus approach.

Meanwhile, Professor Veronica Hope Hailey, the inaugural Dean of the University of Bristol’s Business School explains that at Bristol, industry professionals are brought into the classroom to mentor students, allowing them to engage with real-world challenges. “This practical engagement not only sharpens our students' problem-solving skills but ensures that education remains relevant to contemporary industry needs while tackling global issues such as climate change and AI with the creativity and adaptability required in the modern workplace,” says Hope Hailey.

This sentiment is similarly echoed by Chan that in readying students to address ‘wicked problems’ – defined as complex, often unresolvable issues – we are encouraging them to think outside traditional academic boundaries. 

While one-half of the key traits of a porous campus are about connecting academics and industry in promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, the other half lies in the physical design of these campuses. This is the challenge facing Professor Brian Squire, the new Dean for the University of Bristol Business School, as he prepares to embed the school in the university’s new Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus. 

Built at the heart of the city, this campus, says Squire, fosters inclusivity and openness, with no barriers between the university and the public. “The ground floor, designed as a community space, serves as a hub for local businesses, cultural events, and inclusive educational initiatives, while the upper floors house research partners and industry professionals who work alongside students and faculty, encouraging organic collaboration and knowledge-sharing.” Squire adds that the Business School’s new master’s programmes integrate AI with social sciences that would equip future leaders to meet contemporary challenges. 

This very principle could well transcend into Malaysia, with a model that offers a similar opportunity to support regional development, strengthen ties to the grassroots communities that these universities serve, and collaborate with the local people to solve challenges using technologies like AI. Hope Hailey and Chan reiterate that engaging with local economies and ecosystems will further the agenda of universities in good stead by contributing towards sustainable development and resolving pressing regional problems – a prime example being Malaysia’s rich biodiversity that presents opportunities for research and innovation when it comes to mapping out sustainability and conservation goals. 

When it comes to the Malaysian Higher Education Plan for 2024 toward creating a more open, collaborative, and impactful educational system, the country has the potential  to embrace the porous campus model. Hope Hailey and Chan conclude, “Moving forward, universities need to play the role of lifelong partners for their students, by helping them adapt and thrive throughout their career, and preparing these individuals to engage with tools like AI responsibly in order to produce future leaders capable of navigating an increasingly complex world.” . 

Learn more here: Open for Business | Campaigns | University of Bristol

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