An overview of the engagement of higher education institutions in the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals

Higher education institutions provide valuable inputs toward implementing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Yet, it is unclear how this engagement is taking place across the world. This study addresses this problem, by reporting on a survey involving a sample of 209 experts from 65 developing, in transition, and developed countries, which sheds light on the involvement of the participants and the overall landscape of implementation of the SDGs in teaching and research. In both contexts, the results indicate the SDGs are recognised as an opportunity for increased collaboration within the university and between different universities. On the other hand, more attention should be paid to the need for revising teaching curricula and research programmes/projects so that they include the SDGs. Also, students do not seem to be proactive in requesting more teaching content and research opportunities related to the SDGs. The results support the recommendation of further actions higher education institutions need to undertake to assist in delivering the SDGs, including intensified networking efforts and engagement with local partners.

Automated summary

This study investigates the participation of higher education institutions in implementing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through a survey involving 209 experts from 65 countries. The results indicate that the SDGs are seen as opportunities for increased collaboration within and between universities, but there is a need for revising teaching curricula and research programs to include the SDGs. Additionally, students do not actively seek more teaching content and research opportunities related to the SDGs. The study supports the recommendation for higher education institutions to engage in intensified networking efforts and local partnerships to deliver the SDGs.