The university third mission: addressing the refugee crisis caused by war in Ukraine

This study investigates the enactment of the university Third Mission in response to the Ukrainian refugee crisis in 2022, focusing on Lithuanian universities. Using social capital theory, the research explores how universities mobilized internal and external networks and resources to provide support to refugees and factors enabling the fulfilment of the Third Mission. Through qualitative data from semi-structured interviews and university websites, the research identifies key mechanisms, such as access to infrastructure, study programs, and local stakeholder engagement. Social capital, particularly bonding, bridging and linking ties, facilitated individual and collective actions and enabling rapid responses. Motivational factors, including empathy, ethical concerns, and historical ties with Ukraine, drove staff engagement. The study provides insights for university managers on leveraging internal and external ties to address major societal challenge. The findings are relevant for policy makers as it draws attention to the important role of universities in creating societal impact.