News

SDG–Universities Platform Symposium

The event discussed the role of Japanese universities in achieving the Global Goals.

On 30 March 2022, UNU-IAS organised a symposium to discuss the future of Japanese universities and their role in achieving the SDGs as part of the institute’s UNU SDG–Universities Platform (SDG–UP). The event engaged 348 participants from universities across Japan in discussions by four working groups on Management, SDGs Curriculum, University Collaboration, and University Evaluation and Accountability.

In opening remarks, Shinobu Yume Yamaguchi (Director, UNU-IAS) outlined the objectives and activities of SDG–UP, emphasising that the platform was an initiative aiming to develop a new model of inter-university collaboration involving diverse stakeholders.

Mariko Kobayashi (Director for International Affairs Division, Minister’s Secretariat, Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT)) highlighted MEXT’s role in supporting UNU-IAS educational and research activities. She also expressed her hope that the symposium would lead to further development of SDG–UP.

Session 1: The Role of University Management in Promoting SDGs

Working Group on Management

The group discussed issues that university leaders should address in promoting the SDGs, including vision, organisation, budget, and diversity, and presented relevant case reports.

Session 2: Development of Inter-University Online Learning Materials

Working Group on SDGs Curriculum

Universities that collaborated on developing an online course "Introduction to the UN SDGs“ presented a summarised version of the learning materials.

Session 3: Promoting the SDGs from a Japanese perspective

Working Group on University Collaboration

The group delivered presentations on initiatives promoting the SDGs in Japan, highlighting their collaborative approach. University students discussed ways to strengthen and evolve their own initiatives.

Session 4: The Significance and Challenges of THE Impact Ranking in University Evaluation

Working Group on University Evaluation and Accountability

The group discussed SDG-related efforts by universities around the world and in Japan, and shared best practices by SDG–UP member universities.

A detailed report of the event is available in Japanese.

Related content

Event

COP28 Debrief: Building Capacity to Implement the Paris Agreement

TOKYO: This event will discuss the outcomes of COP28 and ways to engage youth in policymaking on climate change.

-

Event

Global Governance and Sustainable Development: Revitalizing Research to Support Multilateral Solutions

On 20–22 June 2024, UNU will co-organize the Academic Council on the United Nations System Annual Meeting 2024.

-

Side Event

Knowledge to Action: Imperatives for Climate Change Education

DUBAI & ONLINE: This COP28 side event at the Thailand Pavilion will focus on the role of climate change education in empowering youth climate action.

-