Type
Seminar
CIFAL Istanbul - SDG Training for Academics of BAU
Location
Istanbul, Türkiye
Date
Duration
5 Hours
Programme Area
Decentralize Cooperation Programme
Registration
Open-registration event
Mode of Delivery
Face-to-Face
Language(s)
Turkish
Pillar
People
Partnership
CIFAL Istanbul, Bahçeşehir University
Background
This seminar was organized to strengthen the integration of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within higher education at Bahçeşehir University. As universities increasingly play a central role in shaping societal transformation, the training aimed to support academics in aligning their teaching, research, and institutional engagement with global sustainability frameworks. The session was opened by CIFAL Istanbul Director Prof. Çisil Sohodol, who emphasized the strategic importance of embedding SDGs into academic practice and the responsibility of higher education institutions in advancing sustainable development.
Learning Objectives
Enhancing academics’ understanding of the SDG framework and its relevance to university teaching, research, and community engagement. Providing guidance on how course content can be redesigned or enriched to reflect SDG principles, with practical examples and field specific approaches. Encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration and fostering a university wide sustainability culture. Highlighting the role of academic institutions in national and global SDG reporting, policy influence, and youth empowerment.
Content and Structure
The seminar began with an opening address by Prof. Çisil Sohodol, outlining the global significance of the 2030 Agenda and the role of universities in achieving sustainable development. This was followed by thematic discussions on incorporating SDGs into course syllabi, designing learning outcomes aligned with sustainability, and adopting pedagogical strategies that encourage critical thinking and real world problem solving. Participants also explored examples of successful SDG focused academic initiatives, and engaged in dialogue on challenges and opportunities related to institutionalizing sustainability within their faculties. The session concluded with a Q&A segment that allowed academics to share needs, reflections, and potential areas of collaboration.
Methodology
The session employed an interactive seminar format combining expert input with group discussion. Presentations provided conceptual grounding, while open exchanges encouraged participants to relate SDG integration to their own teaching practices. Dialogue-based engagement supported peer learning and the cultivation of a collaborative academic environment.
Targeted Audience
Academics and faculty members of Bahçeşehir University
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