University of York joins SDSN UK members to discuss Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Over 40 members and stakeholders of the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) UK, including the University of York, recently gathered to ignite a powerful movement within UK higher education institutions that contributes to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The event marked a significant milestone for SDSN UK, as it brought together its diverse membership and collaborators for the first time since its inception. Hosted by the UCL Institute for Innovation and Public Purpose (IIPP), the gathering showcased the network's impressive growth, now encompassing more than 20 esteemed UK universities and research centres.

During the event, held on 26 April, SDSN UK members convened at IIPP to celebrate the accomplishments of their first year and explore future strategic directions for 2023-2025. The meeting, conducted in a hybrid format, allowed participants from across the UK to actively engage in the co-creation process led by Dr. Kate Roll, Associate Professor and SDSN UK Network Chair, and Anca Tacu, a researcher at UCL IIPP.

The workshop proved fruitful as it unveiled exciting opportunities for enhanced collaboration within the network and emphasized the importance of improved coordination among UK universities to accelerate progress towards the SDGs.

Anchoring the discussions were several key themes, including the network's vital role as a bridge between policy and practice, the need to disseminate shared learnings through innovative channels, and the significant contribution of higher education institutions to sustainable development education.

A discussion on SDG data gaps and weaknesses in the UK

As the day progressed, attention turned to the preliminary findings of a groundbreaking research project titled 'SDG data gaps and weaknesses in the UK.' This collaborative effort involved IIPP, Newcastle University, and the Office of National Statistics (ONS) and aimed to enhance the collection and accessibility of UK government data for the SDGs. Supported by UCL's SDG Initiatives, the project holds immense potential for driving positive change.

Dr. Roll and Dr. Graham Long, a Senior Lecturer at Newcastle University, expertly presented the initial research findings to a distinguished group of 40 stakeholders, representing academia, the public sector, and civil society organisations. Building upon the Measuring Up 2.0 report released in September 2022, the research focuses on identifying challenges faced by stakeholders and the barriers hindering the resolution of data-related issues pertinent to the SDGs.

Reflecting on the event's success, Dr. Roll expressed her delight, stating, "The event served as a platform for strengthening bonds within the SDSN UK network. We witnessed tremendous enthusiasm and an abundance of ideas that align with our strategic objectives. We are also thrilled by the response from our partners and collaborators, who have wholeheartedly engaged with our research on SDG data and the ONS's efforts."

With the 2023 SDG Summit fast approaching, this day of productive exchanges offered an opportune moment for contemplating the role of UK higher education institutions in supporting the country's progress, leadership, and vision for SDG implementation. Exploring this topic in greater depth, IIPP MPA students and SDSN UK research assistants, Charles Beaudry and Daniela Alvarado, recently launched a compelling blog series.

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Overall, the gathering served as a catalyst for change, amplifying the commitment of SDSN UK members and stakeholders to drive sustainable development in the UK and contribute significantly to the global pursuit of the SDGs.

SDSN UK