Education

Education

Science and innovation are key drivers in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the broader 2030 Agenda. Various educational initiatives and collaborative efforts have demonstrated the potential of science diplomacy, environmental education, and global partnerships in tackling pressing environmental, social, and economic challenges.

The GLOBE International STEM Network (GISN) and UNITAR Global Diplomacy Fellows are among the leading programs that foster international cooperation and knowledge-sharing to drive meaningful impact in sustainable development.

Additionally, the Sudan War’s impact on education and scientific research, as well as broader global diplomacy efforts, highlight the urgent need for resilience-building strategies across different regions.

Objectives

• Strengthen global engagement in STEM education through interdisciplinary collaborations.
• Showcase the role of science diplomacy in achieving sustainability and resilience.
• Highlight case studies and real-world applications of science education contributing to SDGs.
• Foster partnerships between educational institutions, governments, and NGOs to address global challenges.
• Assess the economic, social, and environmental impacts of these initiatives and their role in advancing the 2030 Agenda.

Implementing the SDGs

The Role of the GLOBE International STEM Network (GISN) in Advancing Sustainability

The GLOBE International STEM Network (GISN) plays a crucial role in fostering collaboration between scientists, educators, and students worldwide. One of the highlights of the program is its ability to integrate open science practices to address pressing environmental concerns.

Rusty Low, a leading figure in the GLOBE Program GIO, moderated discussions on leveraging science education for sustainability. The GLOBE Program enables students and teachers to participate in real-world environmental data collection, engaging in research on topics such as atmospheric conditions, biodiversity monitoring, and climate change impacts.

Dr. Magdalena Waleska Aldana Segura from GLOBE GISN discussed Guatemala’s pioneering STEAM program, an initiative coordinated by Universidad de San Carlos and Universidad Galileo. This program has reached over 1.7 million seminar attendees, engaging 18,500 K-12 students and 15,000 teachers. Students developed groundbreaking projects, such as mosquito-borne disease monitoring, cosmic ray analysis, and sustainable agricultural practices. The project fosters innovation by linking scientific exploration with real-world applications, such as an Arduino-based automatic watering system that achieved 60% water savings.

Another outstanding initiative is the SLE-GO project, presented by Dr. Marco Contin from Udine University. The project, based in the cross-border regions of Italy and Slovenia, focuses on environmental education through hands-on research expeditions. Students investigate topics like soil degradation, microplastic pollution, and the impacts of wildfires. The initiative encourages knowledge transfer by having high school students conduct field research and then train younger students, creating a cycle of scientific mentorship and sustainability awareness.

Read the full report: The Role of GLOBE International STEM Network in Advancing Sustainability

Addressing Microplastic Pollution and Climate Challenges

Dr. Sanduni Kanishka, a researcher at GLOBE GISN, shared insights on microplastic pollution in the Garanduwa Lagoon, Sri Lanka. The study, conducted in collaboration with University of Ruhuna and University of Vavuniya, mapped microplastic distribution and identified key sources, including tourism waste and fishing industry pollution. The findings highlight the need for sustainable waste management policies to protect aquatic ecosystems and human health.

A similar initiative was conducted in Nigeria, where Dr. Fasakin Olawunmi led research on mosquito population dynamics. This study examined how water quality factors such as pH levels and temperature influence mosquito breeding. The research plays a crucial role in malaria and dengue prevention strategies and supports SDG Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3).

Diplomatic Approaches to Science and Environmental Sustainability

The UNITAR Global Diplomacy Fellows Program has been instrumental in integrating science diplomacy into international sustainability efforts. Aleksander Berger, from Örebro University, Sweden, explored the potential of student representatives in science diplomacy initiatives. His case study on the NEOLAiA European Universities Alliance demonstrated how students can engage in global health, digital transformation, and sustainable development policies.

Additionally, Breyanna Fields, a UNITAR GDI Fellow, examined the link between human rights violations and human trafficking. Her research highlights how a lack of economic opportunities increases vulnerability to exploitation. Addressing these socio-economic disparities is key to achieving SDG Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8) and Reduced Inequality (SDG 10).

Read the full report: Shaping the Future of Global Diplomacy UNITAR Global Diplomacy

Impact of Conflict on Education and Scientific Research in Sudan

The war in Sudan has severely disrupted scientific research, higher education, and medical care. Intisar Soghayroon & Akram Alkalifa, representing Arab League Education Culture and Science Organization (ALECSO), detailed the catastrophic impact of war on education. Over 10,000 schools have closed, affecting 19 million children, while 157 universities have been severely disrupted, impacting 700,000 students and researchers.

Moreover, Ahmed Hassan Fahal from University of Khartoum highlighted the devastation faced by the Mycetoma Research Centre, a leading institution in tropical disease research. The war has halted medical research and limited patient care, exacerbating Sudan’s health crisis.

In response to these crises, Suad M. Sulaiman from Sudanese National Academy of Sciences (SNAS) presented a One Health Approach to rebuild Sudan’s healthcare and research infrastructure. The strategy includes disease control measures, veterinary care programs, and environmental restoration projects.

Read the full report: Multifaceted Impact of Sudan War on Sciences, Education, and Scientific Research

Women’s Empowerment in STEM and Diplomacy

Gender equity remains a priority in STEM and diplomatic initiatives. Gisella Lamas from the University of Kentucky emphasized the role of science diplomacy in empowering women. Her research integrates environmental science with policies aimed at breaking the cycle of domestic violence.

Similarly, Emily Kenward, a UNITAR GDI Fellow, focused on the climate-conflict-gender nexus. She examined how women environmentalists face systemic challenges in conflict zones and advocated for gender-inclusive strategies in environmental policy-making.

These efforts align with SDG 5 (Gender Equality), promoting inclusivity and leadership opportunities for women in science and governance.

Read the full report: Reflecting on History, Building a Resilient Society

Goals

Achieving sustainability in science, education, and diplomacy requires a multi-faceted approach. The goals of the discussed initiatives include:

• Expanding STEM and Environmental Education: Ensuring access to quality science education, especially in underserved regions, to cultivate the next generation of scientists and sustainability advocates. Programs like GLOBE GISN have reached thousands of students worldwide, encouraging their active participation in scientific research.
• Strengthening Educational Resilience in Conflict-Affected Regions: Countries like Sudan face significant barriers in education due to ongoing conflicts. Programs that provide digital learning solutions, emergency educational support, and policy advocacy ensure continued access to learning.
• Enhancing International Scientific Cooperation: The integration of open science frameworks and cross-border research projects promotes global data-sharing and innovative problem-solving.
• Promoting Gender Equity in STEM and Diplomacy: Addressing barriers to women’s participation in science and international diplomacy is essential for a more inclusive and diverse field. Initiatives like GLOBE’s focus on gender equality empower women and underrepresented groups in STEM fields.

Contribution to the SDGs

The programs and initiatives presented in this report contribute significantly to the SDGs, particularly in the following ways:

• SDG 4 (Quality Education): Expanding access to STEM education through global networks like GLOBE GISN. These efforts equip students with critical thinking skills and hands-on scientific experience, preparing them for future careers in research and sustainability.
• SDG 5 (Gender Equality): Ensuring equal opportunities for women in STEM fields, particularly through mentorship programs, scholarships, and leadership opportunities in international organizations like UNITAR Global Diplomacy Fellows.
• SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation): Conducting research on water pollution, sanitation, and sustainable management of water resources. For instance, GLOBE participants have worked on real-world projects assessing water quality and its impact on communities.
• SDG 13 (Climate Action): Addressing climate change through data-driven environmental monitoring, carbon footprint reduction strategies, and scientific contributions to climate policy. Schools participating in GLOBE actively track atmospheric conditions, aiding researchers in understanding climate patterns.
• SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals): Strengthening international collaborations in education, science, and policymaking. Multi-stakeholder partnerships between NGOs, government agencies, and academic institutions ensure sustained impact and resource mobilization for global sustainability.

Economic, Social, and Environmental Impact

The initiatives detailed in this report provide a holistic approach to sustainability, addressing key economic, social, and environmental challenges.

Economic Impact

• Job Creation and Workforce Development: STEM education initiatives create pathways for students to enter high-demand careers in science, technology, and environmental sustainability.
• Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Programs encourage young scientists and researchers to develop innovative solutions, such as sustainable technologies and environmental monitoring tools, which can lead to economic growth and new business ventures.
• International Funding and Investment: Science diplomacy initiatives, particularly in developing nations, attract funding from international organizations, governments, and private sectors, further fostering economic resilience.

Social Impact

• Educational Equity: By expanding access to quality education and resources, initiatives ensure that marginalized communities, including girls and students in conflict zones, receive equal learning opportunities.
• Community Engagement and Empowerment: Programs encourage citizen science, where individuals and local communities participate in environmental monitoring and decision-making processes.
• Science Diplomacy and Global Collaboration: Strengthening ties between nations through joint research and knowledge-sharing enhances international cooperation and peacebuilding efforts.

Environmental Impact

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Programs like GLOBE GISN contribute valuable environmental data, helping policymakers make informed decisions regarding conservation and sustainability efforts.
• Biodiversity Conservation: Research efforts monitor biodiversity loss and propose solutions to protect ecosystems and natural resources.
• Climate Resilience Strategies: Schools and research institutions participate in projects assessing carbon footprints, air quality, and deforestation impacts, contributing to climate adaptation and mitigation strategies.

By integrating economic, social, and environmental considerations, these initiatives provide a comprehensive framework for sustainable development, ensuring lasting positive change on both local and global scales.

Impact on the 2030 Agenda

The initiatives and programs discussed in this report align closely with the core pillars of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. By fostering global cooperation in STEM education, environmental research, and science diplomacy, these efforts accelerate progress across multiple SDGs.

The promotion of sustainable practices, equitable access to education, and international scientific collaboration strengthens institutional capacities and ensures that no region is left behind. Programs such as GLOBE GISN and UNITAR Global Diplomacy Fellows serve as exemplary models of how interdisciplinary collaboration can lead to long-term positive change.

Additionally, initiatives in conflict-affected regions, such as Sudan, emphasize the importance of resilience and adaptability in achieving sustainable development goals despite ongoing challenges.

Conclusions

The discussions and projects highlighted in this report demonstrate the critical role of global engagement in science, education, and diplomacy for achieving sustainability. By fostering a culture of collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and hands-on participation in scientific research, these programs create opportunities for future generations to contribute to sustainable solutions.

The examples from GLOBE GISN, UNITAR Global Diplomacy Fellows, and conflict-affected regions showcase the tangible impact of interdisciplinary and cross-sector efforts. Moving forward, sustained investment in education, technology, and international partnerships will be necessary to maintain momentum and scale up successful models of engagement.

The integration of emerging technologies such as AI, remote sensing, and digital learning platforms will further enhance accessibility and effectiveness in achieving sustainability goals.

Way Forward

To build on these successes and further accelerate progress toward the SDGs, the following strategic actions should be considered:

• Scale up partnerships: Expand collaborations between educational institutions, governments, NGOs, and private sector organizations to increase resources and expertise.
• Leverage emerging technologies: Integrate AI, IoT, and remote sensing to enhance data collection, analysis, and policy implementation for environmental sustainability.
• Enhance resilience-building strategies: Support education and research infrastructure in conflict-affected and vulnerable regions to ensure long-term sustainability.
• Increase inclusivity in STEM and diplomacy: Develop targeted programs to encourage greater participation from underrepresented groups, including women and marginalized communities.
• Strengthen policy engagement: Bridge the gap between scientific research and policymaking by increasing dialogues between scientists, policymakers, and industry leaders.
• Encourage youth engagement: Foster mentorship and leadership programs that empower students to take active roles in global sustainability initiatives.

By implementing these actions, global education and research networks can continue to contribute meaningfully to the achievement of the SDGs and the broader 2030 Agenda. The commitment to sustained collaboration, innovation, and inclusion will be vital in shaping a more sustain