Year: 2022

Prepared by: Department of Scientific Affairs

Al-Bayan University

Executive Summary:

Al-Bayan University is dedicated to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 17 (SDG 17) of Partnerships for the Goals. This progress report outlines our initiatives and achievements in building effective partnerships, fostering collaboration, and supporting sustainable development within our campus community and beyond.

Overview:

UN SDG 17 aims to strengthen global partnerships to support and achieve the other Sustainable Development Goals. Al-Bayan University recognizes the importance of collaboration and cooperation in addressing complex global challenges.

Key Initiatives and Achievements:

1. Academic and Research Partnerships:

Al-Bayan University has fostered academic and research partnerships to drive sustainable development:

  • Collaborating with local and international universities on joint research projects.
  • Participating in global academic networks to share knowledge and expertise.
  • Hosting conferences and symposiums that facilitate cross-disciplinary collaboration.
    1. Memorandum of understanding between the Islamic University of Lebanon and Al-Bayan University. The third paragraph of this MoU reads “The two signatory parties will exchange visits by faculty members in order to review the work of the Center for Scientific Research and Studies, the Centers for Sustainable Educational Development and Development, and the nature and methods of academic and research work. The number of visiting professors, specializations, and the purpose of the visit will be determined in advance, and an understanding of the burdens it will entail.”
    2. Collaborating agreement between Al-Bayan University and the American University in Beirut. The two parties agree on holding workshops, seminars and conferences on various academic endeavors including sustainability.
    3. Memorandum of understanding between the UKM University and Al-Bayan University. This MoU aims at enabling the graduates of the University of Al-Bayan to continue pursuing further education in UKM University and to hold workshops and exchanging expertise in various academic fields including but not limited to sustainability.
    4. Memorandum of understanding between the American University for Science and Technology in Lebanon and Al-Bayan University. This one was due to our university pursuit of expertise in teaching skills, internships in sustainability and technology.

2. Community Engagement and Outreach:

The university actively engages with the local community:

  • Collaborating with local governments, NGOs, and community organizations to address regional development challenges.
  • Offering public lectures, workshops, and training programs to promote sustainable practices and awareness.

Image: Al-Bayan University holds a civil defense workshop for university staff. Source: https://albayan.edu.iq/en/2021/06/15/1852/

3. Sustainability Initiatives:

Al-Bayan University is committed to sustainability and environmental partnerships:

  • Reducing our carbon footprint through energy-efficient practices and renewable energy adoption.
  • Partnering with environmental organizations to promote conservation and sustainable practices.
  • Al-Bayan is an active participant in the Green Metric UI) ranking and the Times Impact ranking. More information can be found here

4. Supporting the SDGs in Curriculum:

The university integrates the SDGs into the curriculum to educate students on sustainable development:

  • Encouraging faculty to incorporate SDG-related topics into their courses.
  • Providing resources and materials to enhance understanding of the global goals.

Challenges and Future Plans:

While progress has been made, challenges remain:

  • Ensuring the sustainability of partnerships and collaborations.
  • Addressing barriers to international cooperation, such as bureaucratic hurdles.
  • Expanding community engagement to reach more underserved populations.
  • Increasing awareness and understanding of the SDGs among students and staff.

Future Plans:

In the coming year, Al-Bayan University is committed to:

  • Strengthening existing partnerships and seeking new collaborations that align with the SDGs.
  • Expanding community outreach and engagement initiatives to address regional development challenges.
  • Enhancing sustainability efforts on campus and promoting environmental responsibility.
  • Continuing to integrate the SDGs into the curriculum and promoting global citizenship among students.

Conclusion:

Al-Bayan University remains dedicated to UN SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. We understand that achieving the SDGs requires collective action and collaboration on a global scale. We will continue to monitor our progress, adapt our strategies, and work towards a future where effective partnerships drive sustainable development and positive change.