Education for the SDGs – Commitment to Education for Sustainable Development (Year: 2024)

Suan Dusit University (SDU), as a leading higher education institution in human development for happiness and sustainability, has demonstrated a clear institutional commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through a systematic approach to Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). The university has integrated SDG concepts into its teaching and learning processes at all levels, particularly through the General Education Curriculum, which is mandatory for all students.

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The General Education Curriculum (Revised 2021) emphasizes the development of Sustainability Literacy—knowledge, understanding, and competencies necessary for living sustainably—through SDG integration across fundamental courses. Three key subjects in this curriculum fully reflect the principles of Education for the SDGs:

1. Lifestyle for Circular Economy

This course serves as a foundation for fostering environmental awareness and understanding of the interconnections between ecosystems, global warming, and climate change. It promotes the responsible use of natural resources and introduces the Circular Economy concept, encouraging learners to adopt environmentally friendly behaviors in daily life.

The course integrates knowledge directly related to the SDGs—specifically SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production)SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals)—and emphasizes the cultivation of Green Citizenship through case-based learning and Life Cycle Thinking.

2. Food for Life

This course enhances understanding of the relationship between food, health, and the environment through the lens of Food Sustainability and Responsible Consumption. It covers nutrition, food management, food safety, and the preservation of Thai and international culinary culture, while promoting sustainable consumption behaviors.

The course supports the achievement of SDG 2 (Zero Hunger)SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) by equipping students with essential knowledge of Food Security and raising awareness of the social and environmental impacts of consumption patterns.

3. Thai and Global Citizens

This course promotes the concepts of Global Citizenship Education (GCED) and Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), aligned with SDG 4.7, which emphasizes that learners should acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, global citizenship, and respect for cultural diversity.

The course content encompasses human rights, liberty, equality, civic responsibilities, anti-corruption education, and Good Governance in Practice. It aims to develop Responsible Global Citizens who embody ethical leadership and actively contribute to a just and sustainable society—core principles of learning for sustainability.

A Whole Institution Approach to Sustainability

The General Education Curriculum exemplifies SDU’s Whole Institution Approach to Sustainability, integrating SDG-related content into all dimensions of teaching and learning—curriculum design, learning activities, and expected learning outcomes. The goal is to nurture graduates with the knowledge, skills, and values required to apply sustainable practices in real life.

This curriculum aligns with Suan Dusit University’s strategic vision to cultivate Happy and Responsible Global Citizens who are capable of connecting academic knowledge with community and national problem-solving in creative and sustainable ways.

Commitment to Education for Sustainable Development

The university’s implementation of the General Education Curriculum reflects a tangible and comprehensive commitment to Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). It encompasses Sustainability LiteracyCircular EconomyFood Security, and Global Citizenship Education (GCED). The ultimate aim is to foster a new generation of students who understand global issues from a systemic perspective and can contribute meaningfully to the advancement of the SDGs through Meaningful Learning for Sustainability.

This integration of SDG-focused courses demonstrates Suan Dusit University’s true institutional mission—to produce graduates who possess both knowledge and moral responsibility, and who can live responsibly within society and the environment. This educational commitment forms the foundation for sustainable development at both national and global levels.

Reference:

Suan Dusit University. (2021). General Education Curriculum (Revised 2021).
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