From a podcast interview with Joanna Regulska, Vice Provost and Dean of Global Affairs at the University of California, Davis, and Jolynn Shoemaker, Director of Global Engagements at the University of California, Davis

“The Sustainable Development Goals, also known as SDGs, can be a catalyst for understanding what is not working in addressing our systemic problems, as well as for innovating and finding real solutions to the complex issues in the world.”
—Jolynn Shoemaker

The Transformative Vision of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development represents a groundbreaking framework that seeks to holistically address global challenges. As Jolynn Shoemaker elucidates, the agenda “brings together the environmental, social, and economic” spheres, forming an integrated and indivisible approach. This marks a significant shift from past international commitments, where issues were often siloed within isolated initiatives. The SDGs serve as a unifying force, merging diverse communities of practice under a singular vision.

Jolynn emphasizes the universality and inclusivity of this agenda, highlighting that it applies to all countries and contexts. This global applicability fosters a shared understanding of development goals, enabling countries and institutions to collaborate across borders. The SDGs provide a common framework that is particularly beneficial for higher education institutions, which are at the forefront of addressing systemic global problems by preparing the next generation of leaders and conducting pivotal research.

She explains that the agenda can catalyze to identify and address what is not working. By leveraging the universal principles embedded within the SDGs, higher education institutions can innovate solutions to complex global challenges. This approach fosters a culture of sustainability and inclusivity, positioning universities as key players in driving meaningful change on a global scale.

Universal Principles: Anchoring Human Rights and Equality

A cornerstone of the SDGs is their anchorage in universal principles, especially human rights, gender equality, and the commitment to “leave no one behind.” Jolynn underscores the necessity of addressing the needs of marginalized communities, noting, “We cannot possibly sustainably achieve all of these goals if we marginalize or leave out groups or communities.”

This principle of inclusivity holds profound implications for higher education. By integrating these universal principles into curricula and institutional culture, universities can champion equity and social justice. This approach ensures that educational experiences are not only comprehensive but also reflective of diverse societal needs.

Jolynn emphasizes the role of higher education in promoting accountability and shared commitment, explaining that these principles can be leveraged to hold various actors, including governments and other institutions, accountable. By embedding these values into educational frameworks, institutions can create an environment that prepares future leaders to advocate for inclusive and equitable progress across sectors.

Higher Education’s Role in Advancing SDGs

Higher education institutions are uniquely positioned to spearhead the global pursuit of SDGs. They serve as hubs for innovation and leadership, producing research and knowledge essential for solving pressing global issues. Jolynn articulates the importance of this sector in preparing future leaders, emphasizing the responsibility that institutions bear in shaping a sustainable future.

The integration of SDGs into educational programs not only enriches curricula but also fosters interdisciplinary collaboration. Jolynn emphasizes that the agenda creates a common framework, making it a powerful tool for building partnerships. Through these collaborations, higher education institutions can drive impactful research and initiatives that go beyond traditional academic boundaries.

Jolynn also underscores that the SDGs encourage introspection both within and outside academic settings by identifying areas that are not working and inspiring innovative solutions. By embedding the ethos of the SDGs into their missions, universities can amplify their impact, cultivate global citizenship, and strengthen a collective commitment to sustainable development.

Conclusion

Embracing the 2030 Agenda and SDGs enables transformative change in higher education. Integrating these goals enriches curricula, fosters innovation, and equips students with skills to address global challenges, preparing future leaders to tackle environmental, social, and economic issues worldwide.

Embedding SDGs in higher education promotes accountability, inclusivity, and collaboration. Universities drive sustainable development through impactful research, partnerships, and stakeholder engagement, creating equitable learning environments that empower communities and ensure education remains central to global progress.

To catch the full interview with Joanna and Jolynn, CLICK HERE.