G20 underutilizing universities in pursuit of UN SDGs

G20 nations are overlooking the immense capacity of higher education institutions to accelerate progress toward the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, according to a report by Times Higher Education.

The study, “Higher Education’s role in advancing the SDGs in the G20: progress and opportunities,” was unveiled at the G20 Universities Impact Summit in India. It asserts that universities’ roles transcend just supporting SDG 4, which pertains to quality education. In fact, the university sector holds the potential to influence all 17 SDGs meaningfully.

Times Higher Education’s Impact Rankings, which evaluate universities based on their teaching, research, community outreach, and stewardship of resources, provided the foundation for the report. This study casts light on three primary areas where the G20 nations can enhance the role of HEIs in achieving the SDGs as the 2030 deadline approaches:

1. Emphasizing relevant research: While universities engage in extensive research across various domains such as health, food security, and the environment, there’s an evident lack of academic focus on specific SDGs, such as SDG 1, targeting poverty. There is thus a pressing need for more research in overlooked SDGs, and the onus is both on governments and universities. However, the nations needing this research the most are often those least financially equipped to sponsor it.
2. Boosting partnerships for the goals: HEIs are in a prime position to further SDG 17, emphasizing partnerships. Their extensive knowledge base allows them to span sectors and international boundaries. Efficiently directing these efforts can optimize limited resources, with the Impact Rankings pinpointing areas of academic brilliance in SDGs to facilitate better investments and collaborations. These alliances can foster knowledge exchange, innovation, and enhanced global cooperation.
3. Fortifying government and higher education ties: The report underscores the importance of cementing ties between governments and HEIs. Universities are invaluable sources of knowledge, evidence, and insights for policymaking. Such partnerships not only elevate higher education standards but also alleviate economic disparities in the wider world.

“Given the enormous political and economic clout of the G20 nations, their role in addressing the SDGs is paramount,” said Duncan Ross, chief data officer of THE and the report’s author, on the urgency of the situation.