Focused on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2: Zero Hunger, the University will play an essential role in leading research initiatives for the SDG 2 Hub as part of the larger UNAI network, which comprises over 1,700 universities and colleges across more than 150 countries.

The decision follows a rigorous selection process, during which UNAI reviewed over 330 applications from higher education institutions worldwide. In making the decision, Newcastle University’s strong commitment to advancing the SDGs was highlighted, including research in sustainable energy systems, regulatory impact, and training of future green energy leaders.

The role, which runs until December 2027, will be led by Professor Georg Lietz, Dr Graham Long, and Professor Katharine Rietig. 

Professor Jane Robinson, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Engagement and Place, Newcastle University, said: “This important appointment is evidence of the quality and strength of our research partnerships, and testament to the hard work and commitment of colleagues across the University in advancing the UN's Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development.

“As Vice-Chair, Newcastle University will have a unique opportunity to help lead global higher education efforts in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals and inspire meaningful collaboration to bring about a more sustainable and equitable future for all.”

Working alongside the SDG 2 Hub Chairs, EARTH University, Costa Rica, and the University of California, Davis, United States, Newcastle University will help advance implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development through fostering innovative research partnerships.

The team will be joined by two other Hub Vice-Chairs for SDG 2, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana, and McGill University, Canada, who will respectively lead teaching and outreach activities, enabling a multifaceted approach.

Professor Georg Lietz, Professor of International Nutrition, added: “Our appointment offers a great opportunity for Newcastle to support the global activities on SDG 2 - and interconnected objectives around food, nutrition, energy, and climate change. With only five years to 2030, and only 35% of SDG targets on track, we look forward to playing a vital role in accelerating the progress together with our international partners, spearheaded by UC Davis and Earth University."

UNAI SDG Hubs are designated institutions of higher education within the UNAI network that actively work to promote the SDGs by leveraging the power of academia to create positive social, economic, and environmental change.

Each Hub is designated to focus on a specific SDG, fostering research, education, and global collaboration to advance that goal, while respecting the strong interdependencies across all 17 SDGs.

UNAI aligns institutions of higher education with the United Nations in supporting and contributing to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Agenda to further encourage innovation and commitment to sustainability education for future generations.