The University of Pretoria’s Approach to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Introduction

The University of Pretoria (UP) has strategically aligned its institutional goals with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), recognising the vital role higher education plays in addressing global challenges. Through interdisciplinary research, policy engagement, innovation, and community partnerships, UP is embedding sustainability into its academic programmes, operations, and broader societal impact. The university’s approach is grounded in a commitment to fostering inclusive development, advancing social justice, and promoting environmental stewardship. This is further demonstrated through its active participation in global networks, such as the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), and its pursuit of initiatives that empower students, academics, and professional staff to engage critically with the SDGs.

In-House SDG Literacy Assessment Tool Hosted at the SDSN Hub

As part of its commitment to promoting sustainability and global citizenship, the University of Pretoria has developed an innovative in-house digital tool aimed at evaluating and enhancing SDG literacy among students and staff. This tool is hosted at the SDSN South Africa Hub, located within the Albert Luthuli Leadership Institute (ALLI), which is part of the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences (EMS) at the university’s Hatfield Campus in Pretoria. ALLI serves as a hub for leadership development and sustainability-focused initiatives. The SDG literacy tool enables users to assess their knowledge of the Sustainable Development Goals, reflect on their understanding, and access tailored resources for growth. It is designed to be both user-friendly and pedagogically robust, fostering a culture of informed sustainability engagement on campus.

The creation of this tool is rooted in UP’s strategic vision to place sustainable development at the heart of its academic and operational agenda. By embedding SDG literacy into the daily lives of students and staff, the university aims to cultivate a shared sense of responsibility and agency toward sustainable futures. This tool not only supports individual growth but also informs institutional decision-making and curriculum development by providing insights into the SDG competencies of its community. As such, it exemplifies UP’s role as a thought leader in advancing the SDGs through education, innovation, and leadership - locally,
continentally, and globally.