Overview of SET4HEI
On July 15, 2024, UNESCO introduced the Sustainability Self-Evaluation Tool for Higher Education Institutions (SET4HEI) during the United Nations High Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development in New York. This free, online tool aims to help higher education institutions evaluate their contributions to the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which include targets such as eradicating poverty, combating climate change, and promoting gender equality.
Tool Features
- Online Self-Assessments: SET4HEI offers a series of multiple-choice questionnaires aligned with each SDG, allowing institutions to assess their sustainability efforts.
- Certification Option: Institutions can apply for SET4HEI certification, which serves as a mark of excellence in sustainability.
- Indicators and Guidelines: The tool includes over 400 indicators and practical guidelines for implementing sustainability initiatives.
Significance and Goals
Dr. Victoria Galan-Muros from UNESCO highlighted that SET4HEI was developed in response to the growing demand from universities seeking support in measuring their sustainability impacts. The tool is designed to be user-friendly, transparent, and adaptable to various institutional contexts. It aims to help institutions at any stage of their sustainability journey by offering flexible pathways and choices.
Training and Knowledge Exchange
- Practical Training: Professor Aiman Albarakati emphasized the importance of practical, real-world applications in training for SDG principles. Effective training should enable participants to become advocates for sustainability, implementing and leading relevant projects.
- Interdisciplinary Approaches: Dr. Miki Sugimura stressed integrating sustainability into academic curricula through interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approaches. This approach helps address SDG target 4.7, ensuring learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed for sustainable development.
Research and Risk Analysis
Professor Shen Xiaomeng noted the critical role of research, particularly in risk analysis, in measuring the impact of sustainability initiatives. Her work focuses on climate risks and how they intersect with various SDGs, emphasizing the need for comprehensive approaches to address interconnected challenges.
Impact of Graduates
Dr. Arturo Condo from EARTH University highlighted that measuring the impact of graduates is crucial for assessing the success of sustainability initiatives. He stressed the importance of refining measurement methodologies to evaluate the real-world effects of graduates and to align educational strategies with sustainable outcomes.
Conclusion
SET4HEI represents a significant step forward in supporting higher education institutions in their sustainability efforts. By offering a structured, adaptable tool for self-assessment and certification, UNESCO aims to enhance the capacity of universities to contribute meaningfully to the UN SDGs. The tool’s focus on practical implementation, interdisciplinary learning, and impactful research reflects a comprehensive approach to advancing sustainability in higher education.
