Prince of Songkla University supports Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for communities at the local, national, and international level.
PSU President Asst. Prof. Dr. Niwat Keawpradub said that the university has committed to operate in accordance with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations, together with 193 countries around the world. A total of 17 goals and 230 indicators have been outlined in the joint implementation of the Global Development Framework to achieve sustainable social, economic, and environmental development without leaving anyone behind, by 2030. To realize these goals, the Sustainability Development Committee has been appointed to formulate policies and guidelines, and to support the operations of various faculties and agencies at institutions that align with the university’s SDG mission and goals.
Asst. Prof. Dr. Attchai Ueranantasun, Vice President for Information Systems and Planning, Pattani Campus, and Director and Secretary of PSU’s Sustainable Development Committee, explained that PSU covers all 17 goals at its five campuses in energy management, water, waste public transport, and environmental management, including activities that take place within the university, communities, national and government agencies, businesses, and organizations. Focus is placed on SDG3 (Health and Well-being) through Songklanagarind Hospital, the Dental Hospital, and the Thai Traditional Medicine Hospital at Hat Yai Campus, along with a Primary Care Unit in cooperation with Pattani Hospital, and the Andaman Health Center at Phuket Campus.
The university places a strong emphasis on energy research, alternative energy, energy saving, and device modifications to help reduce energy consumption. In addition, smart electric equipment has been installed in each building to track energy consumption using information systems, signifying PSU’s readiness to be a center of alternative energy usage in the South, and the learning center for the community. Public transportation is provided on the university grounds, along with suitable pedestrian paths for students and staff, in compliance with SDG7 ( Affordable and Clean Energy). The university has also established a research center with experts in fisheries, coastal resources, and marine environment, which corresponds to SDG14 (Marine and Ocean Ecology). Various research projects are also conducted in topics corresponding to SDG15 (Life on Land).
In addition, the university takes a proactive role in propagating well-being, reconciliation and peace, driven by the Institute of Peace Studies, alongside the Office of Promotion and Academic Services promoting healthy living conditions, all in compliance with SDG16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions). The university also fosters the creation of cooperative networks at the local, national, and international level, fulfilling SDG17 (Partnership for the Goals).
“PSU’s implementation of development according to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aim to treat the community on all five campuses: staff, students, and the surrounding communities, as an integral part of promoting sustainable development and further the purposes of SDGs”, Dr. Attchai explained.
