Nims University Leads the Charge to establish a Global Centre for Sustainable Development

“Sustainable Development Goals are a gift not only to us but also to the future
generation” – Dr. Tomar

Nims University has taken a significant step towards global sustainability with the launch of the Global Centre for Sustainability Development (GCSD). This unfolding initiative demonstrates the university’s ambition to bring about positive change on a global scale. By the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDG), the University has positioned itself as a leader in the movement for a supportable future. The aim is to ensure a holistic and inclusive approach to development, leaving no one behind, and creating a sustainable future for all.

In 2015, the UN launched the Sustainable Development Goals as a global call to action, asking people from across the world to focus on the five Ps; People, Planet, Prosperity, Peace, and Partnership. Nims University is resolute in this transformative initiative and has adopted the ten SDGs as its main framework for holistic development. By focusing on these goals, the University wants to make a difference in the lives of people, and the planet, promoting prosperity, establishing peace, and building meaningful relationships.

Nims University has adopted 10 specific goals, including No Poverty, Zero Hunger, Good Health and well-being, Quality Education, Gender Equality, Clean Water and Sanitation, Affordable and Clean Energy, Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, Climate Action, and Life on Land.

To focus on poverty alleviation through village adoption, skills training for marginalized communities, and donation camps in local villages the institution is observing November as a No Poverty Month. These activities are part of the University’s multi-faceted vision to create a positive social impact and promote prosperity in all walks of life.

The university underlines the importance of collaboration and meaningful connections between the academic community and society at large. By working closely with the local communities, It believes it can drive collective action towards achieving the SDGs. Through research, education, awareness, and community engagement, Nims is determined to contribute to the comprehensive growth of the nation.

The college faculty and students were addressed by the Chairman and Chancellor, Prof. (Dr.) Balvir S. Tomar. He highlighted the issue of climate change, noting that despite November traditionally being a cold month in India, this year has experienced an unusually high temperature, deviating significantly from established climate patterns. Dr. Tomar emphasized the urgency of the situation, referencing a report from European Union scientists that predicts 2023 could potentially be the warmest year in the past 125,000 years. This alarming revelation underscores the immediate need for heightened awareness and collaborative efforts to address the escalating challenges posed by climate change.

On a contrasting note, Dr. Tomar said, “Our university is committed to leading the way in sustainable development. By adopting the SDGs and working together to realize them, our students and faculty have the power to make a real difference in the lives of individuals, communities, and the planet. We believe in the transformative powers of education, and sustainable innovation and invite you all to join us in this remarkable journey toward a clean and green environment.” Dr. Tomar added, “We all have a shared responsibility to join hands and work together to implement these principles better and ensure a healthy planet for future generations.”

He shared the pivotal role of educational institutions in advocating the cause of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Each college within Nims has meticulously crafted a detailed plan outlining three specific skills for employment generation. These skills are designed to empower individuals, providing them with the means to secure employment and financial stability, thus contributing to the broader objectives of sustainable development goal no.1.

The Vice-Chancellor of Nims University, Prof. (Dr.) Sundeep Mishra provided a comprehensive overview of Earth and climate disruptions. He addressed key issues such as climate change, ocean acidification, biodiversity loss, land use change, pollution, and freshwater depletion in global environmental issues. He underscored the food system’s substantial contribution to one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions and 70% of global water use. Prof. Mishra’s call for collective efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, conserve resources, and promote sustainability.

Additionally, he emphasized the crucial role of Higher educational institutions in supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

He said that now is the perfect time for organizations to come up with a “global” approach to education and health that includes both local and global solutions. Diversity, Prosperity, and Inclusion should be at the core of implementing the SDGs plan

Prof. Mishra discussed a detailed plan of action for the next ten months, which was in line with the SDGs adopted by the university. He urged all members to take an active part in these initiatives, focusing on raising awareness of the environmental issues of plastic pollution, poverty, and climate change to create a sustainable future by 2030. The next ten months are expected to be marked by a focus, collaboration, cooperation, and a determination to confront these challenges.

It’s not just about speeding up the connection between healthcare and education – it’s about building on the progress Nims University has already made by creating strategies that bring both together, in line with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.