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SUSTAINABILITY GOVERNANCE IN HIGHER EDUCATION: AN ANALYTICAL STUDY OF THE CURRENT STATE AND CHALLENGES IN ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL, AND GOVERNANCE PRACTICES IN SAUDI ARABIA
Keywords:
sustainability governance, ESG: Environmental, Social, and Governance, higher education institutionsDOI:
https://doi.org/10.17654/0972361725033Abstract
Sustainability governance and the integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices are gaining prominence within higher education institutions globally, and particularly in Saudi Arabia. This mixed-methods study aimed to analyze the current state and prevailing challenges of ESG practices within the Saudi higher education sector, thereby shedding light on existing sustainability governance frameworks. Focusing on King Saud University and the College of Applied Studies and Community Service as case studies, the data were collected via questionnaires administered to 64 diverse university stakeholders (including 6 senior leaders, 8 faculty members, 13 administrative staff, and 37 students). The research sought to assess ESG awareness levels, evaluate implementation efforts, and identify key barriers to effective integration. Quantitative findings revealed generally positive perceptions regarding environmental awareness campaigns and social justice policies, however, views were mixed concerning the clarity of stated sustainability goals. Qualitative data further illuminated significant challenges impacting effective sustainability governance. These include limited student awareness and engagement with ESG principles, the non-binding nature of many current sustainability-related policies, and a notable lack of robust mechanisms for evaluating the outcomes and effectiveness of sustainability projects and initiatives. The study concludes that while a foundational awareness of ESG issues is present, achieving meaningful integration and strengthening sustainability governance within Saudi higher education that necessitates deliberate action. This includes developing more robust and binding policy frameworks, enhancing communication and awareness strategies, fostering greater stakeholder engagement across all university levels, and implementing rigorous evaluation systems to track progress and ensure accountability towards achieving defined sustainability objectives.
Received: February 11, 2025
Revised: March 17, 2025
Accepted: March 28, 2025
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