Implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals from a University Study Center

Abstract

Faced to the challenges proposed by the Sustainable Development Goals approved internationally in the 2030 Agenda, the key role of the University in its achievement is recognized. In order to evaluate the contributions of the Center for Environmental and Natural Resources Studies, of the University of Pinar del Río "Hermanos Saíz Montes de Oca" , Cuba, in the period 2017-2018, in favor of the Sustainable Development Goals, a qualitative investigation was conducted through theoretical methods; the analysis / synthesis, and the documentary analysis as procedures and research techniques respectively. Perceived postgraduate and research activities that responded to the Sustainable Development Goals in the period evaluated were identified and quantified. 434 actions were carried out that paid 52.9% of the Objectives. Objective 4 "Quality education", Objective 11 "Sustainable cities and communities" and Objective 15 "Life of terrestrial ecosystems" were the most significant, with 160, 80 and 70 activities respectively. The graduate contributed 50 courses and 24 master theses; while the research paid tribute to 48 publications, 11 projects, 24 awards and 133 papers, of which 42 were presented at national and international scientific events. It is concluded that through the training and research processes, the Study Center was able to advance in the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals with emphasis from environmental education; however, it is necessary to strengthen actions that respond to all the objectives, as well as increase awareness and training activities.