University Students as Advocates of Social Justice and Socially Responsible Leaders

Year 2026, Volume: 11 Issue: 1 , 114 - 160 , 30.03.2026

Burcu Erdemir , Mehmet Ali Yılık

https://doi.org/10.30828/real.1626059

https://izlik.org/JA84FE62TY

Abstract

Social justice refers to the equitable distribution of resources, opportunities, and rights within a society. While it is a commonly held ideal, its realization varies across countries due to differing political, socioeconomic, and geographical conditions, which influence the experience of social injustices. Higher education institutions can play a pivotal role in addressing these injustices and contributing to social transformation through their academic research, educational practices, and the cultivation of civic-minded graduates. This study investigates the relationship between social justice perceptions and socially responsible leadership among university students. Utilizing an explanatory sequential mixed-method design, the research focused on Turkish university students to explore how their understanding of social justice aligns with their readiness to lead responsibly within their communities. The findings indicate that while students demonstrated a strong awareness of and concern for social injustices, prevailing social and cultural norms often constrained them from taking substantial action. This study highlights the necessity of policy initiatives that promote collaboration between the government and universities dedicated to advancing social justice. Such partnerships are essential for empowering students to become proactive agents of change in creating a more equitable society.

Keywords

social justice , socially responsible leadership , higher education , theory of planned behavior , social change model

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