2023
In an increasingly interconnected world, the pursuit of sustainable development requires collaborative efforts that transcend borders, sectors, and disciplines. Sustainable Development Goal 17 (SDG 17) - Partnerships for the Goals - recognizes this imperative, calling for a global partnership to support and achieve the ambitious targets set forth in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Shoolini University, nestled in the Himalayan foothills of Himachal Pradesh, India, has embraced this call to action with unwavering dedication. As a young and dynamic institution, we understand that our role in fostering sustainable development extends far beyond our campus boundaries. Through strategic partnerships, innovative collaborations, and a commitment to global engagement, Shoolini University has positioned itself as a catalyst for positive change in our region and beyond.
As an academic institution, Shoolini University plays a vital role in this global effort by:
1. Fostering international collaborations in research and education
2. Developing partnerships with government bodies, NGOs, and the private sector
3. Sharing knowledge and best practices for sustainable development
4. Promote research-driven initiatives to encourage innovative thinking and solutions.
5. Support entrepreneurship development through incubation centers, and mentoring programs.
6. Supporting Capacity-Building Initiatives
This report outlines Shoolini University's multifaceted approach to addressing SDG 17, highlighting our initiatives, achievements, and ongoing efforts to strengthen partnerships for sustainable development. From our international academic collaborations to our engagement with local communities, government bodies, and NGOs, we demonstrate how a relatively small institution can make a significant impact on global sustainability goals.
| Partnerships with Regional NGOs and Government for SDG Policy Development |
Shoolini University plays an active role in national and regional SDG policy development through its robust collaborations with government and non-government organizations. The university engages in the identification of challenges, policy development, strategy formulation, and monitoring of interventions related to various SDGs.
Through strategic partnerships, Shoolini University directly contributes to SDG-related policy discussions and projects. The university's MOUs with entities like the National Biodiversity Authority, the Government of Himachal Pradesh, and other NGOs focus on critical areas such as environmental sustainability, health and well-being, and gender equality. These collaborations enable the university to provide expert input, model future scenarios, and support adaptive management for sustainable development initiatives.
One standout example of the university’s active participation in health and well-being (SDG 3) is its partnership with YouWeCan, an initiative founded by cricket legend Yuvraj Singh to combat cancer. Through this collaboration, Shoolini University plays a critical role in raising
awareness, facilitating screenings, and conducting health programs aimed at improving community health outcomes. This partnership highlights the university's commitment to supporting health-related SDG policies and interventions, empowering local and national efforts to reduce the burden of cancer and other diseases.
By working alongside NGOs such as the Ladli Foundation Trust and People Vigilance on Human Rights, as well as international bodies like ICIMOD, Shoolini University plays a key role in shaping policies and implementing projects that address SDG challenges at various levels. Its commitment to such partnerships helps create a knowledge-to-action framework, promoting sustainable practices and contributing to policy outcomes both regionally and nationally. This involvement also ensures that students and faculty are integrated into real-world sustainable development efforts, making a significant impact on the UN’s 2030 Agenda.
Shoolini University has further demonstrated its commitment to Sustainable Development Goal by engaging in national-level SDG policy discussions and initiatives. A notable example of this is the launch of a joint publication by Shoolini University and the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) in March 2023, titled ‘Building a Sustainable Future - How Universities Can Help Implement SDG Goals.’ This publication was unveiled by Former President Mr. Ram Nath Kovind at the National Conference of Vice-Chancellors held at the University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya (USTM).
Partnerships with Regional NGOs and Government for SDG Policy Development
|
Sr. No. |
Name of NGOs/ government organization |
Relationship of University with NGOs /government organization |
SDG |
Evidence |
|
1 |
Ladli Foundation Trust |
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) |
Gender Equality |
|
|
2 |
All India Council of Human Rights, Liberties, and Social Justice |
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) |
Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions |
|
|
3 |
People Vigilance on Human Rights |
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) |
Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions |
|
|
4 |
Ministry of Jal Shakti |
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) |
Clean Water and Sanitation |
|
|
5 |
National Biodiversity Authority |
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) |
Life on Land |
|
|
6 |
WICCI National Coaching Council |
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) |
Quality Education |
|
|
7 |
Government of Himachal Pradesh |
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) |
Good Health and Wellbeing |
|
|
8 |
YouWeCan |
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) |
Good Health and Wellbeing |
https://iqac.shooliniuniversity.com/storage/app/public/images/202411060559YouWeCan%20(1)%20(1).pdf |
|
9 |
iHub DivyaSampark |
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) |
Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure |
|
|
10 |
International Skill Development Corporation |
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) |
Decent Work and Economic Growth; Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure |
|
|
11 |
Agro Environmental Education & Farmers Welfare Society |
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) |
Zero Hunger |
|
|
12 |
International Coaching Federation (ICF) |
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) |
Quality Education |
|
|
13 |
FICCI Ladies Organization |
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) |
Gender Equality; Decent Work and Economic Growth |
|
|
14 |
Public Relation Council of India |
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) |
Decent Work and Economic Growth, Partnership for the goals |
|
|
16 |
Himalayan University Consortium (HUC) - ICIMOD |
Membership |
Climate Action |
|
|
17 |
Association of Indian Universities (AIU) |
Membership |
Quality Education |
2022
Shoolini University is deeply committed to the principles and objectives of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), recognizing the critical role of partnerships in achieving these ambitious global targets. SDG 17, "Partnerships for the Goals," highlights the importance of collaboration, cooperation, and collective action in addressing the world's most pressing challenges. Shoolini University embraces this ethos and actively cultivates partnerships that enhance its capacity to contribute effectively to sustainable development at local, national, and global levels. Shoolini University has collaborated with several government agencies, non-governmental organizations, industries, research institutions, and local communities to drive progress towards the SDGs. These partnerships not only strengthen the university's research capabilities but also amplify the impact of its findings and recommendations in tackling issues related to sustainable development. Shoolini University is actively involved in research pertaining to various SDGs, including clean water and sanitation, affordable and clean energy, industry innovation and infrastructure, life on land, climate action, good health and well-being, and responsible consumption and production.
The university's commitment to SDGs is reflected in its primary objectives:
- Provide essential knowledge, solutions, technologies, and innovations for implementing SDGs.
- Support the global community in achieving Sustainable Development Goals.
- Enhance diversity within research endeavors.
- Equip students with necessary training for active contribution to sustainable development efforts.
This report underscores Shoolini University's substantial contributions towards advancing SDG 17, 'Partnerships for the Goals', exemplifying its commitment to collaborative and impactful sustainable development initiatives.
Relationships with regional NGOs and government for SDG policy
Shoolini University maintains strong collaborations with various regional NGOs and government organizations to actively contribute to the development and implementation of SDGs. The university has established Memorandum of Understanding (MOUs) with a several regional NGOs and government entities such as the Government of Himachal Pradesh, YouWeCan, iHub DivyaSampark, International Skill Development Corporation, Agro Environmental Education & Farmers Welfare Society, International Coaching Federation (ICF), FICCI Ladies Organization, and the Public Relation Council of India, among others. Through these partnerships the university plays a crucial role in identifying challenges, formulating policies, and implementing effective strategies for a more sustainable and inclusive future.
Shoolini University is also an active member of the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) and the Himalayan University consortium (HUC) and is actively engaged in organising and participating in various policy-making initiatives. Shoolini University is a very active member of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), which is also a vital body giving directions to Indian universities regarding academic and research. Recently, former President Mr. Ram Nath Kovind launched a joint publication by Shoolini University and the Association of Indian Universities. This publication titled ‘Building a Sustainable Future - How Universities Can Help Implement SDG Goals’ was released at the National Conference of Vice-Chancellors at the University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya (USTM).
Former President Mr. Ram Nath Kovind Unveils Joint Publication by Shoolini University and AIU at National Conference of Vice Chancellors
Shoolini University is also a member of the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) which is proactively working at the interface of industry and academia, providing directions on research, innovation, and infrastructure development. The Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of Shoolini University is a regional co-chair of ASSOCHAM National Education, which is a prime body giving directions to the education sector.
In partnership with the Department of AYUSH, Government of Himachal Pradesh, Shoolini University is set to establish 'Shoolini Yogananda AYUSH Medicity' in Solan to revive the principles and practices of ancient knowledge, science, and medicinal techniques. Shoolini University also organized a brainstorming Session on 'State of Environmental Report' on 30 August 2022 in collaboration with Government of Himachal Pradesh to discuss various policy initiatives related to climate action and environmental protection.
The table below illustrates the relationship of the University with NGOs and government organizations.
|
Sr. |
Name of NGOs/ government |
Relationship of |
SDG |
Evidence |
|
1 |
Government of Himachal Pradesh |
Memorandum of |
Good Health and |
|
|
2 |
YouWeCan |
Memorandum of |
Good Health and Wellbeing |
|
|
3 |
iHub DivyaSampark |
Memorandum of |
Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure |
|
|
4 |
International Skill Development Corporation |
Memorandum of |
Decent Work and Economic Growth; Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure |
|
|
5 |
Agro Environmental Education & Farmers Welfare Society |
Memorandum of |
Zero Hunger |
|
|
6 |
International Coaching Federation (ICF) |
Memorandum of |
Quality Education |
|
|
7 |
FICCI Ladies Organization |
Memorandum of |
Gender Equality; Decent Work and Economic Growth |
|
|
8 |
Public Relation Council of India |
Memorandum of |
Decent Work and Economic Growth, Partnership for the goals |
|
|
9 |
Association of Indian Universities |
Membership |
Quality Education |
|
|
10 |
Himalayan University |
Membership |
Climate Action |
|
|
11 |
Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) |
Membership |
Decent Work and Economic Growth; Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure |
|
|
12 |
ASSOCHAM |
Membership |
Decent Work and Economic Growth; Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure |
2021
Shoolini University is actively engaged with a number of government agencies and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) at both national and sub-national levels to formulate policies and strategies related to SDGs and accelerate their adoption and implementation. Some of the highlighted interventions where the university is involved are mentioned below.
1. International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD): Shoolini University is an active member of the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) and the Himalayan University consortium (HUC) and is actively engaged in organising and participating in various policy-making initiatives. HUC partners also develop and adopt programmes aimed at training students on mountain issues and promoting research on Himalayan sustainability and climate change. Shoolini University regularly participates in the activities of HUC and has also organized an International Dialogue on Himalayan Ecology and a Sustainable Mountain Development Summit VII with a focus on the wellbeing of the next generation of farmers in the Himalayan Region. Hon’ble Chancellor of Shoolini University is an active member of the Himalayan University Consortium for Research and Development, which is an active body promoting research on Himalayan sustainability, climate change, and so on.
2. Hon’ble Chancellor of Shoolini University is a very active member of the Association of Indian Universities, which is also a vital body giving directions to Indian universities regarding academic and
research. Shoolini University also organized a North Zone Vice Chancellors’ Meet on the theme “Realizing SDGs through HEIs for ensuring Equality and Sustainable Society” on November 26-27, 2021. The meeting was primarily focused on the role of HEIs from the perspective of their contribution to achieving the SDGs. The discussion covered the global progress in achieving these goals; sharing knowledge, success stories, and good practices; and identifying particular areas of concern and main challenges related to SDGs adoption.
3. Shoolini University is a member of the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII), Northern Regional Committee on Lifesciences and Biotech and the Northern Regional Committee on Education, which are working at the interface of industry and academia, providing directions on research, innovation, and infrastructure development.
4. At the regional level, Hon’ble Chancellor of Shoolini University is a member of the Department of Environment Science & Technology, Govt. of Himachal Pradesh, which works towards defining a direction for research and development in the area of environmental sciences and climate action.
5. The Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of Shoolini University is a regional co-chair of ASSOCHAM National Education, which is a prime body giving directions to the education sector.
6. MOU with FICCI Ladies Organisation: Shoolini University has also signed MOUs with FICCI Ladies Organisation, a non-government, non-profit organisation whose mission is to engage with policymakers and civil society in order to express the views and concerns of the business community and transform the participation of women in India's growth.
7. MOU with IHub DivySampark: Shoolini University and IHub DivySampark, a non-profit organisation, have signed a memorandum of understanding to create an innovative ecosystem in India by supporting translational research, providing training, building capacity, and developing policies to provide solutions for national strategic sectors.
8. MOU with YouWeCan: Shoolini University has signed a MOU with YouWeCan to take initiatives towards cancer research, awareness, patient support, and policy-making for better implementation and driving change. YouWeCan is a non-profit organisation which was set up in 2009 by cricket icon Yuvraj Singh, who is a cancer survivor and who has made a remarkable return to the Indian national cricket team after fighting cancer.
9. MOU with the Government of Himachal Pradesh: The Department of AYUSH, Government of Himachal Pradesh and Shoolini University have signed a MOU for the establishment of "Shoolini Yogananda AYUSH Medicity". The idea behind setting up the AYUSH Medicity is to revive the principles of ancient knowledge and healthcare policy making.
10. MOU with International Coaching Federation (ICF): Shoolini University has partnered with the International Coaching Federation for a social impact project with a goal of creating empowered professionals from a group of less privileged students. Shoolini University actively takes part in policy making, initiatives, assessment and evaluation of the project.
| SDG 17 Partnership for Goals Status Report 2021 | View |
| Sr. No. | Name of NGOs/ government organization | Relationship of University/faculty with NGOs /government organization | SDG | Evidence |
| 1 | Himalayan University Consortium (HUC) and International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) | Membership | Climate Action, Quality Education, Responsible consumption and production | https://shooliniuniversity-my.sharepoint.com/:b:/p/abhishekkumarsharma/ERYxrZOY7QhDiuulIPno_YcBy4fdJAJGXM0InOm60DOUSQ?e=agbScp |
| https://www.icimod.org/huc/members/ | ||||
| https://shooliniuniversity.com/blog/aiu/ | ||||
| 2 | Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) | Membership | Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure | https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zgxSK-YxBndNczWZaeyrWFKyVpc6SHcw/view?usp=sharing |
| 3 | Association of Indian Universities (AIU) | Membership | Quality Education, Gender Equality, Reduced Inequalities | https://shooliniuniversity-my.sharepoint.com/:b:/p/abhishekkumarsharma/ETFYsppbJK5BqYbr1v3_l0gBt-nafFWNHk4n10b2wTZWOQ?e=YHcpVI |
| 4 | Association of Indian Universities (AIU) research committee | Membership | Quality Education | https://shooliniuniversity-my.sharepoint.com/:i:/p/abhishekkumarsharma/ET43WxztIRFLsCX2p5IZhlsB8_oaMwNpv2-J_aGhJKDb2Q?e=wUYQmR |
| 5 | Department of Environment Science & Technology, Govt. of Himachal Pradesh | Membership: PK Khosla (Chancellor) | Climate Action | https://shooliniuniversity-my.sharepoint.com/:b:/p/abhishekkumarsharma/ETXOvkk4JGxHjsE7mHb_C5gBWLFrEyGCHiT2GaZjTOHdxw?e=xUFup0 |
| 6 | ASSOCHAM | National Education - Regional Vice Co-Chair: Atul Khosla (Vice Chancellor) | Quality Education | https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KHd8PWG-qegnxDCOeXuOBsoJdSLGAJpV/view?usp=sharing |
| 7 | FICCI Ladies Organisation | MOU | Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure; Gender Equality | https://drive.google.com/file/d/19LySqBQoJuLtrtBi4FhOj-7T7LaF_WUp/view?usp=sharing |
| 8 | IHub DivySampark, Technology Innovation Hub | MOU | Quality Education | https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YdnmNAZVokFpGIpE7NbLwObWHUriNtSM/view?usp=sharing |
| 9 | YouWeCan | MOU | Good Health and Wellbeing | https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gJ86fWgOZXB2ngPdlZury3-xIj1UfngH/view |
| 10 | Department of Ayush, Government of Himachal Pradesh | MOU | Good Health and Wellbeing | https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EwPXoM3ECoJlTepJ6nGW87Hnh-hrCffu/view?usp=sharing |
| 11 | International Coaching Federation (ICF) | MOU | Quality Education | https://shooliniuniversity-my.sharepoint.com/:b:/p/abhishekkumarsharma/EVvkZ6PZrOVCtdecHcy-Gl0B-P7lnbyx5kOLFKZ1nwAQmg?e=ZGPdKy |
