Formation of a sustainable development ecosystem for Ghanaian universities

Research in the field of sustainable development (SD) in many developing countries remains multifaceted and discipline-oriented, especially at the institutional level where researchers and practitioners regularly produce research outputs to inform policy decisions aimed at meeting the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Although a number of seminal research studies have focused on incorporating aspects of SD in higher education institutions through curriculum development and partnerships, there are still challenges with regard to the uptake of SD practices by universities in Ghana, West Africa – the focus of the study presented in this article – as well as in many other developing countries. For his study, the author undertook a systematic review of the literature on sustainability research in the context of Ghana, particularly in relation to higher education. His literature review revealed that a lack of understanding of education for sustainable development (ESD) by many individuals and institutions is creating a gap in knowledge and practice within the higher education landscape. To address this problem, the author proposes the adoption of an “ecosystem” that integrates (1) research networks; (2) national SD activities; (3) institutional structures and leadership; and (4) the ESD concept of the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development with its 17 SDGs into the curricula of Ghanaian universities. The author suggests that such an ecosystem could encourage a collegial environment that supports the exchange of SD ideas and skills among staff and students. In addition, the SD ecosystem could provide a framework for developing students’ knowledge and skills in line with global SD agendas, while also heightening research networks both locally and internationally, and ensuring that universities adopt research-informed SD practices.