A few weeks ago, The FuturED Institute had the honour of participating, for the third consecutive year, in the HESI Global Forum, an international event organised by the Higher Education Sustainability Initiative (HESI) as a special event of the United Nations High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF). Our Institute was represented by Professor Alexandra de los Ríos from the Learning & Research Department.
Held under the theme “Reimagining Higher Education for Global Transformation towards a Sustainable Future,” the Forum convened representatives from universities, international organisations, United Nations entities and other key stakeholders committed to strengthening the contribution of higher education to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Throughout the Forum, participants explored how higher education institutions and academic networks can move beyond institutional commitments towards tangible, collaborative action that delivers measurable impact. Particular attention was given to the Sustainable Development Goals under review during the 2026 High-Level Political Forum, including SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
The discussions also highlighted the importance of strengthening international partnerships, fostering innovation in teaching and research, and equipping current and future leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to address complex global challenges through interdisciplinary collaboration.
The Forum provided a valuable opportunity to exchange perspectives with leading experts and institutions from around the world, explore new avenues for international cooperation, and learn from initiatives that are driving meaningful change through higher education.
The FuturED Institute’s continued participation in the HESI Global Forum reaffirms its commitment to advancing educational innovation, expanding access to high-quality learning opportunities, promoting international collaboration, and contributing to a more equitable, inclusive, resilient and sustainable future.