The American University of Sharjah (AUS) promotes higher education for sustainable development through an integrated approach that combines education, research, campus operations, and community engagement. Sustainability principles are embedded across academic programs, with strong emphasis on renewable energy, smart infrastructure, climate resilience, and responsible innovation, while interdisciplinary research aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals addresses challenges such as energy transition, smart cities, and environmental sustainability. AUS also advances sustainability through partnerships with government and industry, sustainability-focused campus initiatives, and student-led projects that foster leadership, innovation, and real-world impact.

Graham International University envisions a world of interconnectedness, where cultural diversity is celebrated and diplomatic bonds thrive. Through accessible education, we aspire to cultivate global citizens equipped with deep cultural understanding and empathy. Our vision extends beyond borders, fostering harmonious relationships among nations. We envision a future where individuals from diverse backgrounds come together to address global challenges collaboratively. With scholarship opportunities spanning selected nations, we aim to empower talented minds worldwide, creating a brighter, more inclusive future for generations. Graham International University (GIU) is a 100% online institution dedicated to providing accessible and affordable education worldwide. With a diverse international faculty and staff, GIU is uniquely positioned to connect diverse communities and bridge cultural gaps through education. As part of The Frankie Graham Jr. Foundation, GIU is driven by a mission to shape the future of international relations. We believe in the power of education to foster mutual understanding, respect, and collaboration among nations. By educating individuals about different cultures, belief systems, and global perspectives, GIU aims to contribute to stronger diplomatic relationships and a more harmonious world. Our commitment extends beyond borders to reach underprivileged communities in Africa, the Arab World, Asia, Europe, and South America. GIU offers a variety of educational programs designed to empower individuals and create opportunities for personal and professional growth. At GIU, we are passionate about making education a universal right rather than a privilege. Join us as we transform lives, build bridges, and inspire a brighter future for all.

At our institution, we believe that quality education is a fundamental right and a critical driver for achieving global sustainability goals. We are dedicated to making higher education accessible, affordable, and impactful for learners worldwide while integrating sustainable development principles into everything we do. Our Vision: A world where every person, regardless of location or circumstance, has the opportunity to gain the knowledge and skills needed to contribute to a sustainable, equitable future for all.

We are committed to achieving the SDGs and are in the process of developing and implementing a sustainability strategy with the support of staff and stakeholders. We are interested in learning more about supporting sustainability from the international higher education community We have over 13,000 students and nearly 600 staff, plus over 20,000 alumni

higher education for sustainable development, sustainable environmental and Energy education 2000

Indigenous Consciousness Education Research methods and practice. SDGs 4, 10, 11, 16

capacity strengthening in education research, methodology and evaluation, teacher quality and preparation, teaching, research on STEM, early childhood education, equity/social justice, global education, Africa education 140+

UNIRANKS’ Areas of Focus Around Higher Education for Sustainable Development At UNIRANKS, we advance sustainable development in higher education through three key pillars: Quality and Transparency in Education - We provide a global, open-ranking system that emphasizes accountability, equity, and quality in universities. - Our methodology promotes transparent data collection and stakeholder engagement, supporting SDG 4: Quality Education. Career Pathways and Employability - Through the UNIRANKS Career Path Initiative, we guide students from Grade 8 through university graduation, aligning academic choices with future workforce needs. - This fosters inclusive and market-relevant education that contributes to economic sustainability and lifelong learning opportunities. Partnerships and Global Collaboration - We organize the annual WHERS Conference and other academic forums that connect universities, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss sustainability, innovation, and employability. - These initiatives support SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals by fostering dialogue and collaboration across regions. Technology and Innovation for Education - We leverage AI-powered tools to enhance student guidance, university engagement, and global ranking accuracy. - By integrating digital innovation, we contribute to building resilient, inclusive, and future-ready higher education systems. Through these efforts, UNIRANKS promotes equitable access, responsible innovation, and sustainable growth in the higher education sector, ensuring that universities are better equipped to prepare students as drivers of sustainable development worldwide. Yes — UNIRANKS represents a global higher education community of over 30,000 universities and institutions, connecting students, schools, and universities worldwide.

AASHE is has been leading association for the advancement of sustainability in higher education for 20 years. We serve a full range of higher education faculty, administrators, staff and students who are change agents and drivers of sustainability innovation. We create resources and education for sustainability change agents at higher education institutions across the globe including our STARS system, a global sustainability standard for higher education. AASHE is comprised of over 900 members across 48 U.S. states, 1 U.S. Territory, 9 Canadian provinces and 20 countries.

My research focuses on integrating artificial intelligence, digital twin technologies, and advanced manufacturing systems to support sustainable development. I work on projects that enhance efficiency, reduce material waste, and improve safety in engineering systems. In addition, I contribute to inclusive education and mentoring initiatives that prepare the next generation of engineers and researchers to address sustainability challenges. The University of Oklahoma is a large public research university serving over 30,000 students across multiple campuses, with strong programs in engineering, science, health, and social sciences. Its community emphasizes innovation, sustainability, and global engagement.

Dhofar University, through its Centre for Sustainability, is committed to advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by embedding sustainability into education, research, operations, and community engagement. The University has adopted several key policies to guide its sustainability journey, including: • Policy for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) • Energy and Water Conservation Policy • Transportation Policy • Non-Discrimination, Harassment, and Modern Slavery Policy In addition, DU has developed a strategic plan for sustainability, established an Advisory Committee with representatives from each college, and is preparing a Climate Action Policy aligned with the SDGs, particularly: - SDG 4 (Quality Education), - SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and - SDG 13 (Climate Action). We aim to: • Integrate sustainability across curricula and research. • Implement awareness programs for students, staff, and the wider community. • Strengthen partnerships with government and civil society to address regional sustainability challenges. • Reduce the environmental footprint of campus operations. By joining HESI, Dhofar University seeks to share best practices, learn from international peers, and contribute actively to the global advancement of higher education for sustainable development. Dhofar University serves over 7,000 students across multiple colleges, with programs spanning arts, sciences, engineering, business, medicine and law. The University is deeply engaged with the wider Dhofar community and partners with regional stakeholders to advance sustainability initiatives. Areas of Engagement: • Curriculum integration • Research for sustainable development • Campus sustainability • Partnerships & community engagement • Climate action initiatives Dhofar University is eager to contribute to HESI’s community, participate in global dialogues, and showcase its sustainability practices through reports, events, and collaborative projects.

AURAK’s sustainability plan strategically focuses on three critical areas of environmental sustainability. First, it addresses our energy consumption and carbon footprint, promoting the use of clean energy within the AURAK community. Second, it outlines strategies for creating a sustainable built environment, enhancing our efforts for a green and healthy campus. Third, it directs our sustainability initiatives towards operational excellence, focusing on sustainable travel, water efficiency, waste management, and sustainable procurement. Further, AURAK’s commitment to social sustainability is unwavering. It encompasses education, research, governance and equality, health and well-being, community engagement, and partnerships. In an educational environment, AURAK’s sustainability action plan positions its aspirations with realistic goals. It has carefully crafted a sustainable action plan that balances the social and planetary priorities in a way that is both ecologically safe and socially just—a space in which AURAK and the broader community can thrive.

Western Governors University (WGU) integrates sustainable development into higher education through competency-based education (CBE), prioritizing skill mastery over seat time, reducing resource use, and enabling flexible learning pathways. Its Environmental Barriers Program proactively supports students affected by natural disasters, maintaining an 87% retention rate during crises. WGU advances educational equity by serving underserved populations (66% of students in 2021) through affordable tuition, need-based scholarships, and personalized mentoring. Academic programs like the B.S. in Secondary Earth Science Education and sustainability-focused courses prepare graduates to address environmental challenges. The university emphasizes sustainable business practices, teaching corporate social responsibility (CSR) and strategies for reducing operational costs through energy efficiency. WGU Labs drives innovation via research on equitable access and scalable EdTech solutions, while policy advocacy promotes infrastructure upgrades and renewable energy initiatives. These efforts collectively position WGU as a leader in aligning higher education with environmental, social, and economic sustainability goals.

At Azerbaijan State University of Economics (UNEC), sustainable development is integrated across academic, research, and institutional activities, aligned with national priorities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The university’s approach to Higher Education for Sustainable Development (HESD) is structured around the following key areas: Curriculum Integration and Awareness-Raising UNEC continuously updates its educational programs to incorporate sustainability-related topics. Courses related to green economy, climate change, sustainable finance, food security, and corporate social responsibility are embedded in both undergraduate and graduate programs. Through these efforts, UNEC aims to raise awareness among students about global sustainability challenges and foster responsible citizenship. Research for Sustainable Solutions With over 300 researchers across various scientific centers, UNEC promotes interdisciplinary research addressing economic, environmental, and social sustainability. Research areas include circular economy, inclusive economic growth, digital transformation, and sustainable agricultural practices. UNEC also encourages publications and conferences focused on SDG-related topics. Community Engagement and Regional Impact UNEC emphasizes social responsibility through projects and partnerships that address local and regional challenges. By engaging with rural and underserved communities, particularly through support for first-generation students and regional outreach programs, UNEC contributes to reducing inequalities and promoting inclusive access to quality education. Sustainable Campus and Operations UNEC has taken steps towards building a more environmentally responsible campus through waste reduction, energy-saving initiatives, and promoting sustainable food choices. Collaboration with students and staff has led to awareness campaigns and initiatives aligned with sustainability values. Gender Equality and Inclusion Gender balance and inclusivity are integral to UNEC’s institutional culture. Women represent 47% of the student population and hold 43% of leadership positions, while 26% of the Academic Council members are women. Policies and initiatives supporting equal opportunity and female leadership are key to UNEC’s sustainability agenda. International Collaboration and Policy Engagement Through strategic partnerships and participation in global education networks, UNEC exchanges knowledge and best practices in sustainable development. The university actively aligns its strategies with international frameworks and contributes to policy discussions on education and sustainability. Azerbaijan State University of Economics (UNEC) is one of the largest and most influential higher education institutions in Azerbaijan and the South Caucasus, with a strong emphasis on economics, management, and social sciences. The university serves a diverse academic community of over 20,000 students and 1,200 academic and administrative staff. It is a major hub for teaching, research, and innovation in the region. UNEC is committed to promoting inclusive, high-quality, and sustainability-oriented higher education. Its strategic focus areas include: Enhancing access to education for underrepresented groups, including first-generation university students (over 35% of total enrollment), Strengthening gender equality, with women representing 47% of students and 43% of leadership roles, Advancing research in areas such as sustainable economic development, digital economy, food security, and green transition, Engaging with local communities to support inclusive growth and regional development. UNEC is also a member of multiple international organizations and networks, reflecting its active participation in the global higher education landscape. These include: IAUP – International Association of University Presidents EUA – European University Association PRME – Principles for Responsible Management Education (an initiative of the UN Global Compact) Erasmus+ – Active partner in student and staff mobility and capacity building projects UNAI – United Nations Academic Impact initiative BSUN – Black Sea Universities Network EURAS – Eurasian Universities Union Through these memberships, UNEC contributes to international dialogue on sustainable development, shares best practices, and builds strategic partnerships aimed at achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through higher education.

Corporate Sustainability, Sustainability Reporting and Auditing IFRS S1 and S2 Under the umbrella of the Council of Higher Education of Türkiye, our university provides education to approximately 50,000 students.

Sustainable laboratories, energy efficiency in lab HVAC systems, sustainable lab purchasing, waste reduction, building decarbonization 700 lab owners, operators, green lab managers, architects, engineers, facility managers and consultants

Majmaah University focuses on integrating sustainable development across its education, research, operations, and community engagement. This includes embedding sustainability into curricula, promoting applied research aligned with the SDGs, and transforming the campus into a living lab for sustainability. Through CIFAL Saudi Arabia—our UNITAR-affiliated center—we deliver high-impact training and capacity-building programs such as the “Expert in SDG 2030 Applications.” We also foster regional partnerships and global collaboration to position the university as a leader in sustainability education within Saudi Arabia and the Arab region. Majmaah University serves over 25,000 students and 1,500 faculty and staff across multiple campuses in Saudi Arabia. As the host of CIFAL Saudi Arabia, a UNITAR-affiliated center, the university extends its reach to a broader national and regional academic community through specialized programs on sustainable development, capacity building, and leadership in higher education. Our focus is on advancing the SDGs through curriculum integration, sustainability training, applied research, and strategic partnerships, with a particular emphasis on localizing global goals within the context of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

We actively engage students through collaborative initiatives, including sustainability campaigns, volunteer opportunities, and hands-on community projects that encourage youth leadership and civic engagement. GreenSphere also builds strategic partnerships with colleges and universities, offering guest lectures, co-hosted events, and peer-led activities that integrate environmental awareness into campus culture. GreenSphere is an emerging community-driven initiative currently building its core membership base. As of now, we have engaged over 60 individuals through pilot workshops, outreach events, and environmental campaigns across St. John’s, Newfoundland. Our growing network includes students, educators, local business owners, and community volunteers who are passionate about sustainability and environmental action. Our membership focus is on active engagement rather than passive subscription

Sustainability is one of 5 pillars in Sorbonne Abu Dhabi's 2024 2028 srategic plan. The university is working towards achieving sustainable goals aligning with the UAE's vision, and the UN SDGs. 1400+ students

Experiential learning, in particular real-world passion projects 45,000 plus students and almost comprehensive