How Can the Integration of Sustainable Development and Corporate Social Responsibility into Albanian Education Help Prepare Tomorrow’s Leaders?

The twenty-first-century poses many challenges to future leaders; this is why it is important to integrate sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR) topics into Albanian education. CSR is still a relatively new and voluntary concept in Albania, and is mainly promoted by large international corporations. While there are efforts to raise awareness about the importance of CSR, there is still a lack of knowledge and promotion practices among the business community, public institutions, and civil society. The significance of the 2030 Agenda, which emphasizes the pivotal role of higher education institutions (HEIs) in promoting CSR education, underpins these efforts. This chapter investigates the perspectives of Albanian university professors regarding the integration of sustainability and CSR into higher education curriculum. Using a survey approach data are gathered from professors within the Faculty of Business and Law at the University of Elbasan ‘Aleksandër Xhuvani’. This chapter aims to address three main questions: the familiarity and perceived importance of sustainability and CSR among professors, the extent to which they feel prepared to teach these concepts, and the barriers they encounter in incorporating them into teaching practices. The results indicate a varying level of familiarity with SD and CSR concepts, with most professors agreeing on the importance of integrating these topics into the curriculum. Key barriers identified from the survey include a lack of relevant content and teacher training, as well as institutional support. Furthermore, respondents emphasize the need for increased funding and enhanced collaboration with international organizations to facilitate the integration of SD and CSR in teaching. Additionally, this chapter highlights the necessity for capacity building initiatives and systemic changes to better equip professors in Albania to prepare future leaders to address complex issues effectively. Moreover, this chapter tries to give a contribution to a national dialogue on education reform, positioning sustainability and CSR as central to preparing future professionals across diverse sectors.