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The importance of sustainability has grown in recent years, requiring greater focus from individuals, organizations, communities, and governments to preserve the environment for future generations. Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is pivotal and requires collaborative efforts to comprehensively address climate change, poverty, and inequality. Higher education institutions (HEIs) play a crucial role in promoting sustainability by educating the future generation of leaders and decision-makers. This study aims to assess the influence of HEIs on the SDGs, showcasing the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) as an example. The methodology of this study followed a flow-based framework of four stages: identifying relevant SDGs for HEIs; analyzing the roles of HEIs and the practices that contribute to the SDGs; mapping UAEU initiatives to each SDG; and finally evaluating the outcomes or recognition that UAEU received from these initiatives. The findings demonstrated clear connections between its initiatives and the SDGs, highlighting the strong influence of societal transformation and improvement. According to the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2025, UAEU ranked across 12 SDGs, achieving an impressive 16th globally for Quality Education (SDG 4). The discussion classifies sustainable practices at UAEU by their corresponding SDGs, demonstrating the university’s integrated approach to sustainability. Furthermore, student engagement in initiatives such as the Undergraduate Research conference, sustainability course, and summer research programs strengthens their knowledge of sustainability and enhances key social and environmental skills.
AlMallahi et al. (Fri,) studied this question.