Walailak University’s Education for SDGs Commitment to Meaningful Education

20Oct 2025 by Kittipong Bunlear

Teaching and Learning

Walailak University places great importance on embedding the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across its entire curriculum, recognizing education as a vital driver of sustainable development. By integrating all 17 SDGs into teaching and learning, the university ensures that students in every discipline—from the sciences to the humanities—develop both professional expertise and a strong awareness of global challenges. This approach prepares graduates to be not only skilled in their fields but also committed to sustainability, social justice, and environmental stewardship.

The university also fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, encouraging students and faculty to explore how diverse fields can contribute to advancing the SDGs. Through research, community engagement, and experiential learning, students are equipped to apply sustainable practices in real-world contexts. This reflects Walailak University’s mission to be a leader in promoting sustainability and social responsibility at both local and global levels. By prioritizing the SDGs, the university strengthens the quality of education, enhances community well-being, and builds partnerships that create lasting positive change.

To ensure systematic implementation, Walailak University applies the Thai Qualifications Framework for Higher Education (TQF). Under the WU TQF system, all instructors are required to identify and integrate relevant SDGs into their courses, making sustainability an integral part of the university’s academic foundation. Diagnostic assessments are conducted to measure students’ understanding of the SDGs and to identify areas where additional guidance or support may be needed, ensuring that sustainability education is both effective and impactful.

In 2024, Walailak University expanded its curriculum by integrating 650 new subjects aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), bringing the total to 2,867 SDG-related subjects. This initiative ensures that students across all disciplines are immersed in sustainable development principles, fostering a deep understanding of global challenges. By embedding SDG-focused content into teaching and learning, the university equips students not only with knowledge but also with practical skills to address pressing environmental, social, and economic issues. This holistic approach prepares graduates to become responsible global citizens, ready to contribute meaningfully to the achievement of the SDGs in their careers and communities.

Integration of On-Campus Education into Wider Community Development

Walailak University encourages students to apply their academic knowledge and skills beyond the classroom by engaging in outreach programs that promote the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These student-led initiatives aim to extend the impact of on-campus education to the wider community, covering key areas such as career development, health promotion, educational access, and cultural preservation. Through hands-on participation, students not only contribute to advancing sustainable development in local communities but also gain valuable real-world experience. This approach reflects Walailak University’s strategic commitment to preparing students for the world of work while fostering social responsibility, leadership, and community engagement as integral parts of higher education.