The Role of Public Administration Education in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals
Keywords:
public administration education, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), interdisciplinary curricula, sustainable governance, higher education reforms.Abstract
Public administration education is a critical driver for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as it prepares future leaders to address complex global challenges. This study explores the integration of SDG principles into public administration curricula, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches, experiential learning, and innovative teaching methodologies. Data collected from a survey of educational institutions and case studies from leading universities reveal that while significant progress has been made in aligning education with SDG priorities, challenges remain, particularly in low-resource settings. The findings indicate that high-income institutions have advanced in embedding sustainability across disciplines through specialized courses, partnerships, and practical projects. However, disparities in curriculum integration and resource allocation highlight systemic issues in low- and middle-income regions, where limited funding, institutional inertia, and a lack of faculty expertise impede comprehensive SDG education. The study also identifies gaps in critical areas such as climate change, sustainable economic development, and social equity, underscoring the need for reforms that prioritize sustainability within core public administration competencies. Recommendations include fostering global partnerships, increasing financial support, and adopting innovative pedagogies to bridge theory and practice. This research contributes to the understanding of how public administration education can play a transformative role in achieving the SDGs by empowering public servants to lead sustainable policy initiatives. It calls for concerted action from educators, policymakers, and global stakeholders to ensure equitable and effective SDG-focused education worldwide.
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