Strengthening Global Partnerships Through Multi-Stakeholder Engagement
Chiang Mai University (CMU) has established a robust framework of collaborations with non-governmental organizations to collectively address the Sustainable Development Goals, positioning itself as a leader in SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) implementation. These strategic partnerships span across multiple sectors and illustrate CMU’s commitment to fostering multi-stakeholder engagement for sustainable development.
The university’s collaborative approach directly addresses THE Sustainability Impact Ratings 2026 metric 17.2.5, which evaluates higher education institutions’ collaborations with NGOs to tackle SDGs through student volunteering programs, research initiatives, and development of educational resources.
International Cooperation Through Strategic NGO Partnerships
CMU has formalized several high-impact partnerships with international NGOs that strengthen global governance frameworks and enhance policy coherence for sustainable development. A significant recent collaboration is with Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA), a humanitarian organization operating in over 30 countries that promotes human rights, democracy, and social justice.
The partnership between CMU’s Regional Center for Social Sciences and Sustainable Development (RCSD) and NPA exemplifies effective North-South cooperation, focusing on addressing the specific needs of marginalized communities while promoting equality, participation, and community empowerment—key tenets of sustainable development.
Similarly, CMU’s Faculty of Political Science and Public Administration has established a productive partnership with the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, facilitating cross-sectoral dialogue on geopolitical challenges and sustainable development priorities. This collaboration brings together diplomatic representatives, academics, and civil society organizations to share knowledge and strengthen capacity building initiatives.
Localized Development Cooperation Through Regional Partnerships
On the regional front, CMU has partnered with the Highland Research and Development Institute (HRDI) to provide legal consultation services to highland communities. This collaboration exemplifies how triangular cooperation between academic institutions, public organizations, and local communities can enhance access to justice and promote inclusive institutions—directly contributing to SDG 16 while strengthening SDG 17 implementation.
“These partnerships are essential for creating inclusive and sustainable development pathways,” notes Associate Professor Dr. Wasant Panyakaew, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences. “By combining academic expertise with NGOs’ field experience, we’re creating a powerful platform for knowledge sharing and technology transfer.”
Environmental Sustainability Through Collaborative Initiatives
In addressing environmental challenges, CMU has engaged with community-based organizations to tackle PM 2.5 pollution through the “Chiang Mai Model.” This initiative brings together university researchers, government agencies, and civil society organizations to develop innovative approaches to air quality management and climate action.
The Institute for Community Development (CODI) partnership has further enhanced this approach, focusing on academic support for community empowerment across various sustainable development priorities, including renewable energy, agriculture innovation, waste management, and cultural heritage preservation.
Student Volunteering and Educational Resource Development
CMU has integrated these NGO collaborations into its educational framework, creating opportunities for students to engage in volunteer programs that address real-world sustainability challenges. These initiatives include field research with marginalized communities, legal aid clinics, and environmental monitoring programs.
“By engaging students in these collaborative efforts, we’re developing both the current and next generation of sustainability practitioners,” explains Dr. Juthatip Chalermphol, who coordinates several of these initiatives.
Through these diverse and impactful NGO collaborations, Chiang Mai University demonstrates its comprehensive commitment to SDG 17, creating a model for how higher education institutions can leverage partnerships to accelerate sustainable development and build a more equitable global future.
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