Education & Training

Redefining the DNA of Higher Education for Sustainable Development: Narratives From India

Redefining the DNA of Higher Education for Sustainable Development: Narratives From India

Embedding sustainability in Indian HEIs requires overcoming fragmented efforts to foster holistic, resilient sustainable development.

Authors

Nisha Nair, Professor,Jindal Global Law School,O.P. Jindal Global University, Sonipat, Haryana, India

Samanvi Narang, Assistant Professor,Jindal Global Law School,O.P. Jindal Global University,Sonipat, Haryana, India

Summary

Sustainability has emerged as a critical global concern, necessitating a concerted effort across all sectors to address its multifaceted challenges. In the Indian context, characterized by rapid urbanization, environmental degradation and socio-economic inequalities, the role of HEIs in promoting sustainable development is transformative. In India, the integration of sustainability into higher education is particularly important, given the country’s demographic diversity, environmental challenges, and its commitment to the UN’s SDGs. Indian HEIs are uniquely positioned to act as catalysts for sustainable practices by fostering environmental stewardship, social responsibility, economic resilience adaptability for sustainable progress. While several Indian HEIs have initiated sustainability programs, these efforts remain fragmented and often lack institutional coherence. This research seeks to analyze the current sustainability initiatives in Indian HEIs, identify barriers to their implementation, and propose strategies for embedding academic sustainability.

Published in: Advancing Diversity, Sustainability, and Reform in Global Higher Education

To read the full chapter, please click here.