On 5 July 2023, UNU-IAS organized the 26th workshop of the UNU SDG–Universities Platform (SDG–UP). The online event engaged 50 participants from 21 universities across Japan, convening four working groups for the first time in 2023.
Working Group on SDGs Curriculum
The group provided a brief history and overview of the online course "Introduction to the UN SDGs" and discussed the increase in the number of universities implementing the course.
Working Group on University Evaluation and Accountability
After a review of the FY2022 working group meeting, Sophia University reported on the performance of Japanese universities in the 2023 Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings. Osaka Metropolitan University presented a case study report on its initiatives for the Impact Rankings.
Working Group on Sustainable Campus
The group, newly established in 2024, focused on campus sustainability activities and explored the possibility of creating platforms engaging the local community and other stakeholders.
Working Group on Management
Members agreed to produce a report summarizing the last two years of the group's activities. It will be produced in English and Japanese and presented at international conferences in Japan and abroad.
In closing, Shunichi Murata (SDG–UP Advisor; Professor, Kwansei Gakuin University) remarked that the workshop was very fruitful and included action-oriented discussions. He concluded the workshop by expressing his hope that each group would would continue to be active and place high importance on mutual exchange and cooperation.
Participating Universities
This workshop engaged 21 participating universities, which are listed below in alphabetical order.
Ehime University
Hiroshima University
Hokkaido University
International Christian University
International University of Japan
Keio Gijuku University
Kwansei gakuin University
Nara University of Education
Notre Dame Seishin University
Okayama University
Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology
Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University
Osaka Metropolitan University
Osaka University
Ryukoku University
Showa University of Music
Soka University
Sophia University
Toyo University
The University of Kitakyushu
University of Tsukuba