Higher education institutions (HEIs) are under pressure to teach sustainability, inclusion, and good governance as well as to demonstrate these values in practice. For that to happen, we need people who understand ESG (Environment, Social, and Governance) principles and can put them into action across all corners of a university.

ESG refers to a set of standards for assessing an institution’s impact on society and the environment. Universities can embed ESG into their teaching, research, and Third Mission by including sustainability into curricula (e.g. Education for Sustainable Development), conducting interdisciplinary research on societal problems, and supporting community engagement initiatives that contribute to environmental stewardship, social equity, and responsible governance. 

This is the focus of the SHIFT project: to strengthen the capacity of HEIs to meaningfully engage with ESG and, in doing so, contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

By equipping students, faculty, and university staff with the know-how to implement, assess, and reflect on ESG practices, the project contributes to fostering a more responsible, inclusive, and sustainable higher education environment. 

What SHIFT Offers

• Training Curriculum for HEIs on modules related to ESG.
• Open Educational Resources (OERs) to empower learners with the necessary skills and knowledge to implement and monitor ESG practices, promoting the development of a culture of sustainability, inclusion, diversity, and participation.
• University ESG Awareness game to raise awareness on ESG and bring it to life in a relatable and interactive way.
• An ESG Impact Index Platform for higher education institutions (HEIs) to self-assess and enhance their performance in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) areas. Institutional Certification Program on ESG impact in higher education.
• A compendium of European and national ESG policies and practices to guide institutional benchmarking.

Why This Matter for Higher Education?

The relevance of the SHIFT project extends beyond traditional students. This is because HEIs are home to a wide range of learners, including professionals pursuing further education, administrative staff engaging in training, academics upskilling for institutional leadership, and lifelong learners seeking purpose-driven learning.

The SHIFT project supports higher education in general by offering training and resources, including flexible modules, an awareness game, and an assessment platform, all of which can be adapted to both formal and non-formal adult education contexts.

For updates on the SHIFT project, learning tools, events, and ways to get involved, follow the project website and LinkedIn.