Exeter Celebrates International Collaboration on Sustainable Development Goals

Future17 Programme Showcases Student-Led Solutions to Global Challenges

The University of Exeter has celebrated SDG Flag Day by looking back at the increasing influence of its international sustainability programme, Future17. This global project, co-headed by Exeter and QS Quacquarelli Symonds, brings together students from six continents with real-world problems associated with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The programme is backed by forward-thinking businesses, NGOs and start-ups, who submit challenges around sustainability for students to solve via collaborative projects.

Since its establishment in 2022, almost 240 students have participated, with academic mentors working with them from partner institutions. Programme directors observed that students bring innovative and nimble minds to time-sensitive challenges in sustainability, creating work that partners might not otherwise have done internally. These inputs have informed actual practices, proving the worth of sustainability in business and learning.

Students also gain from global collaboration, developing cultural understanding and global connections,capabilities that have been deemed essential for addressing the issues of sustainable development. Academic lead for Future17, Hollie Kirk, emphasised the value of interdisciplinary, international co-creating of solutions, asserting that this is crucial to addressing the intricate global challenges.

Max Thornton, a third-year Business and Environment student, spoke about his experience of working for Ernst & Young South Africa. He said the project was both significant and professionally enriching and that employers appreciate the hands-on experience and teamwork skills that are acquired through Future17. Max also pitched the programme at the EU Universities Network meeting in Lausanne, meeting with 15 other member institutions.

Some of the international student sustainability projects undertaken in 2025 involved a number in North America. They included a youth public transport participatory guidebook for Canada, the US and England; a marginalised Black tourism businesses report for support in the US; and AI chatbot development to aid wildfire innovation start-ups.SDG Flag Day, which takes place every year on 25th September, commemorates the UN's endorsement of the SDGs and reminds organisations across the globe of their pledge to create a more sustainable and peaceful world.

Future17 was commended by Professor Tim Quine for providing students with an opportunity to contribute to education for global challenges, in addition to cultivating important skills and a sustainability-led approach. He observed that more than 1,000 students have since been involved, supporting Exeter's position of leadership in sustainability in higher education and among world-leading universities and SDGs. With over 160 students already signed up for the eighth cohort, Future17 is expanding as a world model for international university action, global university league tables and SDGs.Future17 is equipping students to be global changemakers through learning, collaboration and action.

Editor's Note

The Future17 SDG Programme is a reflective and timely model of how universities can drive substantive change in global sustainability. Commemorated on SDG Flag Day, the University of Exeter's consideration of this initiative underscores the increasing significance of sustainability in higher education and students as active participants in practical solutions. What's especially compelling about Future17 is its applicative, global scope. By linking students from six continents with problems from businesses, NGOs and start-ups, the programme provides more than academic education; it provides real-world experience in addressing global challenges in education and sustainability in business and education. The range of projects, from public transport outreach to wildfire technology and assistance for disadvantaged tourism entrepreneurs, illustrates how broad and applicable these efforts are. It is heartening to note that students are not just acquiring technical competence, but also cultural acuity and global orientation,attributes that are crucial for framing the challenges of sustainable development. The participation of academic tutors and the support of industry sponsors add weight and durability to the programme's reputation and worth. The University of Exeter's role at the forefront of this global sustainability programme also solidifies its ranking among the best universities and SDGs. By integrating sustainability into education and encouraging collaboration across borders, Exeter is influencing a new generation of changemakers. That employers are taking notice of the worth of Future17 says a great deal about its impact in the real world.

Skoobuzz believes that Future17 stands out as a prime example of how universities worldwide are tackling critical global issues. Now entering its eighth cohort, the program's growing momentum demonstrates a profound dedication to educating students on global challenges. It also reflects a shared understanding that sustainability must be central to future learning. This initiative represents a positive step towards a more unified, accountable, and forward-thinking academic landscape.

FAQs

1. What is SDG Flag Day in universities?
SDG Flag Day is held every year on 25th September to mark the anniversary of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Universities take part by flying the SDG flag and sharing how they support global sustainability. It’s a way to show commitment to building a fairer, greener and more peaceful world.

2. How are universities promoting global sustainability?
Universities promote sustainability by running research projects, teaching climate and development topics, and working with global partners. Many offer programmes where students help solve real-world problems linked to the SDGs. They also make changes on campus,like reducing waste, saving energy, and supporting local communities.

3. Why was Exeter University honoured on SDG Flag Day?
Exeter was recognised for its Future17 SDG Programme, which connects students from around the world to work on real sustainability challenges. The programme helps students gain practical experience, build global networks, and make a real impact. It shows Exeter’s strong role in the University of Exeter's sustainability and global education.

4. Which top universities focus on sustainability and development?
Many leading universities focus on sustainability, including the University of Exeter, University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, and international institutions like Stanford and Tokyo University of the Arts. These universities are known for their work in global university rankings and SDGs, and for supporting international university initiatives.

5. How can students support sustainable development goals?
Students can get involved by joining sustainability projects, studying related subjects, volunteering, or taking part in global programmes like Future17. They can also make everyday choices—like using less plastic, saving energy, and raising awareness. Working together, students can help tackle global issues in education and beyond.