United Nations High Level Political Forum (HLPF) 2026 - Virtual Side Event
Co-Organised by the IAU and IAU HESD Cluster Lead for SDG 11 Siam Univeristy
Higher education institutions, together with their students and civil society partners, are essential actors in advancing the 2026 HLPF theme by accelerating inclusive, science-informed, and community-driven action for sustainable development. This session focused on SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and the vital contribution of universities in shaping sustainable and greener, more resilient, and more inclusive and equitable urban futures through education, research, innovation, and civic engagement.
The discussion highlighted how universities work with youth and student networks, municipalities, and local communities to co-create solutions for sustainable mobility, affordable housing, climate adaptation, public spaces, social inclusion, and digital innovation. Particular attention was given to student-led initiatives, youth participation in urban governance, and campus-city partnerships that turn higher education institutions into living laboratories for sustainable cities.
Key questions:
In what ways can higher education institutions accelerate sustainable transformation in cities while linking local action to global goals?
How can cities and universities build long-term collaborations that deliver measurable sustainability impact?
Speakers:
o Welcome: Hilligje van’t Land, Secretary General, IAU
o Pornchai Mongkhonvanit, President of Siam University, and Yhing Sawheny, Siam University, Thailand
o Paulo Alexandre da Silva Pereira, Head of the Environmental Management Research Laboratory (EVL), Mykolas Romeris University, Lithuania
o Hiba Mohsen, Faculty of Architecture, Beirut Arab University, Lebanon
o Tamara Ciobano, Steering Committee Member, Global Student Forum
o Closing words: Jouhaina Gherib, UNESCO Chair, La Manouba University and Vice President, IAU
o Moderation: Hilligje van’t Land, Secretary General, and Isabel Toman, Senior Programme Officer, International Association of Universities
SDGs addressed:
SDG 4: Quality Education for All
SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
SDG 17: Partnership for the Goals