Dr. Kartika Yulianti from BINUS University presented how higher education can embed Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into curriculum, research, and community engagement, fostering character education and social transformation.

On the second day ICOBAR – FIDI Joint Scientific Forum 2025, Dr. Kartika Yulianti from BINUS University delivered a thought-provoking presentation on integrating Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with character education in higher education.

Dr. Kartika emphasized that universities play a crucial role in achieving the SDGs, as they not only create and share knowledge but also shape future leaders. “Higher education plays a key role in transforming individuals and advancing society. The SDGs provide a framework for this transformation,” she noted.

Her presentation outlined four key aspects of the SDGs: universality, interconnectedness, transformation, and inclusion. She stressed that SDGs are not isolated goals but interconnected, requiring systemic thinking and collaborative solutions.

At BINUS University, this integration is implemented through curriculum design, research, leadership, and community engagement. Dr. Kartika explained the use of a backward design framework in teaching, which begins with the desired learning outcomes and then works backward to design assessments and activities. For instance, character-building courses now embed SDG-related project-based learning, where students conduct research, interviews, and create scientific articles addressing global issues.

She highlighted that graduate attributes at BINUS—such as social awareness, adaptability, and collaboration—are strengthened through these approaches. Students are encouraged to produce not only academic work but also community-focused projects, such as posters, videos, and storytelling initiatives.

Community service was another key component of her talk. Dr. Kartika shared examples of initiatives ranging from storytelling sessions at children’s reading parks to collaborative activities in public spaces. These, she explained, align academic missions with the broader societal need for sustainability.

During the Q&A session, Dr. Kartika addressed how character-building education can be implemented effectively for Generation Z. She explained that by integrating project-based learning with SDGs, students enhance not only their academic knowledge but also essential soft skills. “Through collaborative work, they build resilience, respect for others, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. These are integral to character development,” she said.

Her presentation concluded with a call for cross-sectoral partnerships to support sustainability, highlighting that education for sustainable development requires collaboration with industries, local communities, and other stakeholders.

With this framework, BINUS University positions itself as a driver of social transformation, showing that education grounded in SDGs can extend well beyond the classroom.

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