At times of rapid societal change, like those we are now living through, the academy can be a radical platform for experimentation and new thinking or a bastion of conservatism — or a combination of both. Whether during the profound social and political disruptions of the 20th century or the accelerating technological disruptions of the early 21st century, universities are uniquely positioned to help societies evolve in ways that benefit all citizens, not just the elite who sit in their classrooms.

But there are huge challenges. How does a modern university navigate the space between its classrooms and labs and the rest of society? How do university leaders prepare students not just to cope with a world that is visibly changing before their eyes, but to lead in a world which is changing at an exponential pace? Indeed, what do you teach today that won't be irrelevant tomorrow? And, can a great university leverage its history to produce better students, leaders and citizens?

The University of Pavia was established by Emperor Charles IV in 1361, making it one of the oldest universities in the world. Francesco Svelto, a distinguished electrical engineer, is now the university's rector. He has the remarkable opportunity and challenges to build a university of the future on a centuries-old foundation. He recently shared his vision for Pavia and, more broadly, education at a time of transformation.

What do you think?