New report calls for higher education institutions to embrace the 2030 Agenda

In a new UNESCO report, the Global Independent Expert Group on the Universities and the 2030 Agenda (EGU2030) implores that higher education institutions must take on a stronger role to tackle the world’s most pressing issues, as outlined in the sustainable development goals.

The report, entitled Knowledge-driven actions: Transforming higher education for global sustainability, was presented at a digital event on 9 February 2022, as a part of the fifth SDG Conference Bergen.

The expert group that authored the report consists of 14 experts from around the world, and was launched by UNESCO in collaboration with the University of Bergen and SDG Norway. The International Science Council and International Association of Universities accompanied the process as supporting partners.

During the event, an overview of the three key themes of the report was provided: the need for more inter- and transdisciplinary approaches, integrating diverse ways of knowing, and stronger partnerships with societal actors.

The report emphasizes the key role that higher education institutions can play in contributing to the SDGs, and directs attention to the systemic barriers that have inhibited transformations in these three areas so far.

Discussant César Guadalupe underscored that there is a need to shake up the way we have been used to doing things in higher education.

Emphasis was placed on the report’s call for higher education leaders and actors to reflect on their role for achieving the 2030 Agenda.

“Each of us, in our own institutions, should push for both discussions and concrete actions,” emphasized co-chair Sylvia Schmelkes.

All speakers concurred with co-chair Dag Olav Hessen’s remark that this report and its recommendations should be used to spark debate and further dialogue among the higher education community regarding the SDGs. Regardless of the different perspectives and reactions to the report, both Hessen and Schmelkes underlined that the most important thing is to use the report as a tool to engage in critical discussions.

The report Knowledge-driven actions: Transforming higher education for global sustainability is now available online, and will be officially launched at the World Higher Education Conference in Barcelona, 18-20 May 2022.

• Watch the recording of the event
• More information on UNESCO’s World Higher Education Conference