International Journal of Environmental, Sustainability, and Social Science
Vol. 7 No. 2 (2026): International Journal of Environmental, Sustainability, and Social Science (Mar

The Higher Education Institution for a Sustainable Future: A Comparative Study from Indonesia and the Philippines on Advancing the SDG

Nina Yulianti (University of Palangka Raya, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
31 Mar 2026

Abstract

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, with SDG 4 (Quality Education) as a foundational goal, requires significant contribution from Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) through research, innovation, and community engagement promoting sustainability. This study utilizes a comparative method to analyze sustainability leadership within HEIs in Indonesia and the Philippines, revealing both progress and persistent inequalities. The increasing inclusion of universities in global sustainability rankings signifies institutional transformation that integrates environmental stewardship, social inclusion, and educational innovation. Leading HEIs—such as Universitas Indonesia, Universitas Gadjah Mada, De La Salle University–Dasmariñas, and the University of the Philippines—exemplify measurable sustainability leadership. However, this progress remains highly concentrated in urban and well-resourced regions (Java and Luzon), reflecting spatial and institutional disparities that limit national participation. Comparative analysis indicates that Indonesian HEIs, notably Universitas Gadjah Mada and IPB University, demonstrate a more balanced sustainability performance across social and environmental dimensions, reflecting cohesive national coordination, while Philippine universities display specialized yet uneven achievements. To sustain momentum, both countries must strengthen inclusive policies, inter-university collaboration, and regional capacity building to empower HEIs as equitable and effective agents of sustainable development, reinforcing a shared vision for a resilient and inclusive future

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

ijesss

Publisher

Subject

Economics, Econometrics & Finance Environmental Science Social Sciences

Description

International Journal of Environmental, Sustainability, and Social Science (abbreviated as IJESSS) p-ISSN 2720-9644 and e-ISSN 2721-0871 is a multidisciplinary journal covering all aspects of the environmental impacts of socio-economic development. The International Journal of Environmental, ...