Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.

SDS4HEI takes an All-dimensions Approach to sustainable development within higher education institutions (HEIs). This fosters a learning environment where social & economic development, and environmental protection, nourish and grow a transversal dimension that shapes perceptions, values, beliefs, and motivation to take action.

We view sustainable development as a holistic, transformative process, which includes mechanisms and pathways to achieve the goals that have been set, resulting in an ongoing, open, and reflexive process.

It is important to remember that Harmony is a Goal, balancing social, cultural, economic & environmental dimensions, plus present and future regional needs.

The self-assessment supports the SDS4HEI Framework. The framework presents a usable model that takes a Whole-Institution Approach. By using the framework, organisations, faculties, departments, working groups and individuals can assess their success in integrating sustainable development into all campus-based activities and initiatives. It can also aid in developing/expanding a sustainable development strategy within the HEI environment, and examining the different impact areas of HEIs.

The SDS4HEI Framework presents two process models, each with 7 steps.

  • Organisations who have a strong vision and strategy in place can utilise the Framework to align sustainable development with regional needs. These organisations should utilise Pathway I https://sds4hei.eu/framework-part-3/ (Page 13 & 14).
  • Organisations who are embarking on their journey to integrate Sustainable Development into their organisation and do not have a vision or a strategy can utilise the framework to perform all the necessary steps that lead to development of a strong vision and strategy. These organisations should utilise Pathway II https://sds4hei.eu/framework-part-3/ (Page 15).

The questions within the Self-Assessment reflect the seven steps in Pathway I:

  1. Baseline & Vision
  2. Mapping Sustainable Development Activities
  3. Linking Activities to SDG Targets
  4. Mapping Governance & Capacities
  5. Mapping Regional Challenges
  6. Alignment & Visualisation
  7. Gap Analysis

If you are just starting your journey, you can learn more about Pathway II https://sds4hei.eu/framework-part-3/ (Page 15)

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