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Italian territory: “University for SDGs”: a Multi-Level Dialogue for Sustainable Development

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University for SDGs involved a multi-city, multi-level initiative fostering participatory dialogue between young people, institutions, and other stakeholders on sustainability challenges. The practice targeted students, young professionals, institutional representatives, and company experts, recognizing that these groups are often underrepresented in Italian decision-making yet are essential for driving ecological, social, and cultural transitions.

Participants engaged in thematic working groups and focus groups addressing urban mobility, climate action, sustainable finance, food systems, and employment in the green transition. Each group was facilitated by academics, institutional representatives, or company professionals actively working in the field, combining theoretical guidance with practical expertise. This participatory approach enabled co-creation of concrete proposals, some brought to policymakers' attention and others translated into tangible projects.

The practice relied on a multi-channel communication strategy, including social media, newsletters, websites, and partnerships with universities, companies, and civil society, ensuring broad dissemination and public engagement. Feedback was collected through surveys, plenary discussions, and follow-up meetings, informing improvements in subsequent editions and strengthening transparency, accountability, and inclusivity. Notably, University for SDGs was invited to the United Nations headquarters in New York, where it was recognised as a Best Practice in sustainability awareness and education.

Second editions are planned for 2026, inviting new participants and guests to analyze and refine proposals from previous years. The practice also connects with the European project ABCinEnergy, where we are developing a platform to monitor university best practices in energy consumption, aligning with cross-cutting sustainability and youth engagement policies.

Overall, University for SDGs strengthened participatory democracy by institutionalizing structured dialogue between youth and decision-makers, fostering social cohesion, intergenerational collaboration, and a long-term culture of sustainability. Its iterative design allows adaptation to emerging challenges, ensuring continued relevance and impact.

Learn more about: https://www.universityforsdgs.it/events 

https://www.oidp.net/docs/repo/doc1938.pdf

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Italian territory: “University for SDGs”: a Multi-Level Dialogue for Sustainable Development

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