SDG Basics

Course Overview

Course Description

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a set of global objectives established by 193 United Nations member states on September 25th, 2015, with the aim of creating a better world. The Introduction to SDGs course aims to offer participants a holistic comprehension of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their pivotal role in shaping global sustainability endeavours.

Throughout this course, participants will gain insights into the origins and importance of the SDGs, their specific targets, and the progress made toward attaining them. The course delves into the diverse economic, social, and environmental challenges the SDGs seek to tackle, encompassing issues like poverty, inequality, climate change, and environmental degradation. Moreover, it provides an overview of the 17 SDGs and their interconnected and interdependent nature, demonstrating how they collectively contribute to pursuing a sustainable and equitable future. Ultimately, enrolling in this course empowers learners to become active agents of positive change, driving progress toward a better and more equitable future for all.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of the course, participants will:

• Have a solid understanding of the SDGs and their relevance to sustainability efforts.

• Describe how reporting contributes to sustainable development and achieving the SDGs.

• Discuss the current trends, challenges, and opportunities when reporting on the SDGs.

This course is ideal for:

Professionals and Entrepreneurs: Business leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals across various sectors seeking to align their organisations with the SDGs, capitalize on sustainable business opportunities, and drive positive societal and environmental impact.

Policy Makers and Government Officials: Public servants and policymakers dedicated to crafting policies that promote sustainable development and social progress. This course provides essential insights into policy formulation and implementation aligned with the SDGs.

NGO and Nonprofit Workers: Individuals working in the nonprofit sector or for non-governmental organisations, striving to make a tangible difference in communities and ecosystems. This course offers strategies for effective SDG-driven projects and initiatives.

Global Citizens and Activists: Concerned citizens who want to deepen their understanding of the world's most pressing challenges and actively contribute to solutions. This course empowers you to be a catalyst for change in your community and beyond.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Professionals: CSR practitioners seeking to enhance their organisation's sustainability initiatives and reporting, ensuring they are in harmony with the SDGs.

Educators and Trainers: Teachers, trainers, and educators looking to incorporate SDG-related content into their curricula and training programs, fostering awareness and action among students and participants.

Students and Academics: Aspiring scholars and researchers interested in unraveling the complexities of global sustainability issues. This course equips you with the knowledge and tools to advance SDG-related research and academic pursuits.

Course Structure and Content

Module 1: An Overview of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This module introduces the 17 SDGs adopted by the United Nations in 2015. The SDGs aim to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all. The module covers each of the 17 goals, their targets, and the indicators used to measure progress.

GOAL 1: No Poverty

GOAL 2: Zero Hunger GOAL

GOAL3: Good Health and Well-being GOAL

GOAL 4: Quality Education GOAL

GOAL 5: Gender Equality GOAL

GOAL 6: Clean Water and Sanitation GOAL

GOAL 7: Affordable and Clean Energy GOAL

GOAL 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth GOAL

GOAL 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

GOAL 10: Reduced Inequality

GOAL 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

GOAL 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

GOAL 13: Climate Action

GOAL 14: Life Below Water

GOAL 15: Life on Land

GOAL 16: Peace and Justice Strong Institutions

GOAL 17: Partnerships to achieve the Goal

Learning Outcomes

• Understanding the purpose and significance of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a global framework for sustainable development and positive societal impact.

• Familiarising with each of the 17 SDGs and their specific focus areas, such as poverty eradication, environmental conservation, and social inclusivity.

• Understanding the targets and indicators associated with each SDG, providing a comprehensive view of the desired outcomes and progress measurement.

Module 2: Human Rights and the SDGs.

This module explores the connection between human rights and the SDGs. It explores how the SDGs are grounded in human rights principles and how achieving the SDGs requires addressing human rights challenges such as inequality, discrimination, and injustice.

Learning Outcomes

• Understanding the foundational link between human rights principles and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

• Understanding how the SDGs aim to address human rights challenges, such as inequality, discrimination, and injustice.

• Gaining insights into the intersectionality of human rights and the interconnected nature of the SDGs.

• Examining real-world examples of how progress towards the SDGs can positively impact human rights situations.

Module 3: Understanding why should organisations engage with the SDGs

This module explains the benefits of engaging with the SDGs for organisations. It will highlight how the SDGs provide a framework for sustainable business practices, enhance reputation and brand value, and contribute to the achievement of the global development agenda.

Learning Outcomes

• Understanding the significance of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a framework for guiding sustainable business practices.

• Understanding the potential benefits and advantages that organisations can gain from aligning their operations with the SDGs.

• Gaining insights into how SDG alignment can enhance an organisation's reputation, brand value, and stakeholder relationships.

• Understanding the role of the private sector in driving progress towards the SDGs and contributing to the global development agenda.