Strategy for Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals 2026–2029

AND

The Roadmap for Advancement in the Times Higher Education Ranking 2025–2026

Within the Development Program for 2024–2029

of Khoja Akhmet Yassawi International Kazakh-Turkish University

1. Introduction

1.1. Contemporary processes of transformation in the higher education system and the growing international competition necessitate the active integration of universities into the global academic space and the strengthening of their role in addressing global socio-economic and environmental challenges. In this context, the strategic development of modern universities is increasingly guided by the principles of sustainable development, as outlined in the United Nations 2030 Agenda and reflected in the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

For Khoja Akhmet Yassawi International Kazakh-Turkish University (hereinafter - IKTU), the implementation of sustainable development policies and the strengthening of its position in international academic rankings are interrelated strategic priorities. In particular, the systematic advancement of the university in the Times Higher Education (THE) rankings, including the THE Impact Rankings, which assess universities’ contributions to the achievement of the United Nations SDGs, is becoming an important tool for enhancing the university’s international reputation, competitiveness, and academic influence.

Firstly, the active integration of sustainable development principles into the educational, research, and administrative activities of the university contributes to the formation of a modern “sustainable university” model aimed at preparing specialists capable of effectively responding to global development challenges. Within this paradigm, the university acts not only as an educational and research center but also as a socially responsible institution influencing the environmental, economic, and social well-being of the region and society as a whole.

Secondly, participation in international rankings such as THE stimulates systematic improvement across all key areas of university activity. Ranking methodologies take into account a wide range of indicators, including research performance, internationalization, quality of education, contribution to society, sustainable resource management, and community engagement. Thus, advancement in rankings serves not only as an external evaluation tool but also as an effective mechanism for strategic development, enabling the identification of institutional strengths, areas for improvement, and long-term development priorities.

It should be emphasized that the development of sustainable development policies and advancement in rankings fully align with the mission and strategic vision of IKTU. According to its mission, the university aims to be an educational and scientific center that prepares highly qualified, innovative specialists for the Turkic world based on academic values and the spiritual heritage of Khoja Akhmet Yassawi. In turn, the university’s strategic vision involves becoming an internationally recognized research university capable of making a significant contribution to the development of science, education, and society at the global level.

The implementation of the SDG Strategy for 2026-2029 and the THE Ranking Advancement Roadmap for 2025-2026 constitutes an important part of the University Development Program for 2024-2029. These strategic documents are aimed at the systematic integration of sustainable development principles into all key areas of university activity, including education, research, campus management, community engagement, and international cooperation.

Moreover, this strategy fully aligns with the priorities of the state policy of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the fields of education, science, and sustainable development. National strategic documents, including the Concept for the Development of Higher Education and Science of the Republic of Kazakhstan for 2023-2029, emphasize the need to enhance the international competitiveness of Kazakhstani universities, strengthen their positions in global rankings, and actively contribute to addressing global sustainable development challenges.

Thus, the implementation of the sustainable development strategy and the roadmap for advancement in THE rankings are aimed at strengthening the university’s international reputation, improving the quality of education and research, developing sustainable campus infrastructure, and expanding IKTU’s contribution to the socio-economic and environmental development of society.

The consistent implementation of these initiatives will enable the university to strengthen its position in the global academic space, expand international cooperation, increase its attractiveness for students and researchers from different countries, and reinforce its role as one of the leading universities of the Turkic world and an important center for sustainable development in the region.

Link with the SDG Strategy and the IKTU Development Program for 2024-2029

The SDG implementation strategy is an integral part of the IKTU Development Program for 2024-2029. It is aimed at the systematic integration of sustainable development principles into all key areas of university activity - educational, research, managerial, and social.

This strategy contributes to the achievement of the university’s strategic goals outlined in the Development Program, including strengthening institutional capacity, improving the quality of education, advancing research activities, and enhancing international cooperation. The integration of sustainable development principles enables the university to form a modern sustainable campus model focused on responsible resource use, environmental sustainability, social engagement, and innovation.

The SDG Strategy specifies the objectives of the Development Program in the areas of environmental responsibility, social sustainability, and effective governance, and facilitates the university’s integration into the global sustainable development agenda reflected in the UN 2030 Agenda. An important tool for implementing this strategy is the university’s participation in international sustainability rankings, including the THE Impact Rankings, which assess universities’ contributions to the achievement of the SDGs.

Through the implementation of monitoring systems, analytics, and interdisciplinary collaboration, the SDG Strategy establishes a unified institutional framework for sustainable governance, enhances transparency, and strengthens the university’s international academic and social reputation.

Main Strategic Goal

To establish a sustainable university ecosystem through the systematic integration of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into the educational, research, managerial, and social activities of the university, aimed at enhancing social responsibility, environmental sustainability, efficient resource management, and strengthening the international academic reputation of IKTU.

Target KPIs for the Implementation of the SDG Strategy (2025-2029)

These indicators are aimed at the systematic integration of sustainable development principles into the university’s educational, research, and managerial activities. Their achievement will strengthen IKTU’s contribution to the implementation of the UN SDG agenda, enhance environmental and social responsibility, and improve its position in international sustainability rankings.

1.2. The Role of IKTU in the Implementation of the SDGs

As a leading regional university and an important scientific and educational center of the Turkic world, Khoja Akhmet Yassawi International Kazakh-Turkish University (IKTU) considers the implementation of the UN SDGs as one of the key priorities of its institutional policy and strategic development. In this regard, the university consistently implements sustainable development principles within the framework of its third mission – contributing to the socio-economic, cultural, and environmental development of society.

Modern universities play a crucial role not only in training highly qualified specialists but also in shaping sustainable models of societal development. In this context, IKTU aims to act as a center for the generation of knowledge, innovation, and practical solutions aimed at achieving sustainable development at regional, national, and global levels.

The university’s activities in sustainable development are carried out within national and international initiatives aimed at ensuring stable socio- economic development, improving the quality of education and research, and strengthening international cooperation. Of particular importance are global initiatives and programs of the United Nations and the international academic community, including:

• UN Conference on Sustainable Development Rio+20
• UN Decade of Education for Sustainable Development (UNESCO)
• UN Academic Impact initiative
• THE Impact Rankings
• Paris Climate Agreement (2015)
• UN SDG Accord

Participation in these initiatives contributes to the development of a global academic space for sustainable development and strengthens the role of universities as key actors in addressing global socio-economic and environmental challenges.

These initiatives define the strategic direction of IKTU, within which the university actively develops research, educational programs, and community projects aimed at promoting sustainable development. The university builds and expands partnerships with research institutions, educational organizations, professional communities, and international partners, fostering a culture of sustainability in both academic and public environments.

A distinctive role of IKTU lies in its function as a regional scientific, educational, and cultural hub capable of bringing together academia, government, business, and international organizations to address sustainable development challenges. The university implements educational programs, research, and applied projects aimed at developing long-term sustainable solutions in economic, social, and environmental domains.

The SDG Strategy for 2026-2029 is developed in accordance with the university’s sustainability policy and forms an integral part of the Development Program for 2024-2029. The document defines strategic directions for integrating sustainable development principles into educational, research, managerial, and infrastructural activities.

The concept of sustainable university development implies a comprehensive approach covering academic activities, resource management, environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and campus infrastructure development. An important focus is the formation of a “sustainable green campus” model, oriented toward energy efficiency, environmental responsibility, and rational use of natural resources.

One of the unique elements of this concept is the integration of the university’s botanical garden (approximately 88 hectares), which serves as an educational, scientific, environmental, and landscape platform for implementing projects in sustainability, biodiversity, and environmental education.

The implementation of the SDG Strategy Action Plan and systematic monitoring of sustainability indicators will ensure a phased transition of IKTU toward an energy-efficient, environmentally responsible, and socially oriented university model. For effective implementation, the university’s activities are structured into the following key areas:

• education and research in sustainable development
• campus infrastructure and environmental management
• development of green energy and energy-efficient technologies

Each area includes a system of criteria, indicators, and actions enabling monitoring and ensuring the achievement of strategic sustainability goals. The main objective of this strategy is to mobilize the intellectual, scientific, and organizational capacity of the university to integrate SDG principles into educational, research, and managerial practices at the university, regional, and national levels. To achieve this goal, the university will focus on leveraging its accumulated experience and expanding cooperation with national and international partners in implementing sustainability initiatives.

1.3. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction and Carbon Neutrality Goal

Within the framework of the UN SDGs and the global climate agenda, IKTU commits to a long-term goal of progressively reducing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving carbon neutrality (Net Zero) by no later than 2050.

The university’s climate target covers Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions, generated from fuel use, heat and electricity consumption, building operations, transport infrastructure, and engineering systems, with a gradual inclusion of Scope 3 emissions related to procurement, mobility, waste, and academic activities.

The implementation of the climate strategy aligns with international frameworks and agreements, including:

• Paris Agreement (2015)
• UN SDG 13 “Climate Action”
• Race to Zero initiative
• UN SDG Accord
• THE Impact Rankings methodology
• QS Sustainability Ranking criteria

The transition to a Carbon Neutral Campus is considered a key element of the university’s sustainability strategy and international positioning. The development of low-carbon campus infrastructure aims to reduce environmental impact, improve energy efficiency, and promote responsible management practices. To achieve Net Zero, the university will implement the following strategic measures:

• introduction of energy-efficient technologies in buildings and systems
• transition to renewable energy sources
• reduction of energy consumption per unit area
• development of on-campus green energy
• digital monitoring of resource consumption
• annual GHG emissions accounting using the GHG Protocol
• reporting on Scope 1, Scope 2, and Scope 3 emissions
• integration of climate indicators into strategic management
• participation in international sustainability rankings
• development of a “sustainable green campus” model

The implementation of this goal will enable the university to transition toward a Climate Neutral University, enhance international competitiveness, strengthen its position in global sustainability rankings, and align with best practices of leading universities worldwide.

Abbreviations

Cost Scale

2. THE Impact Rankings

Participation of IKTU in the THE Impact Rankings is considered a key strategic instrument for assessing and promoting the university’s contribution to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This ranking, developed by Times Higher Education, is the only global framework that directly measures the impact of universities on addressing major socio-economic and environmental challenges.

The THE Impact Rankings methodology covers a wide range of indicators reflecting universities’ contributions to sustainable development, including quality of education, SDG-related research, community engagement, environmental responsibility of the campus, efficient resource management, and international partnerships.

For IKTU, participation in THE Impact Rankings has strategic importance, as it enables the systematic integration of sustainable development principles into education, research, and governance. Improvement in these indicators supports interdisciplinary research, enhances social responsibility, and fosters a sustainable university ecosystem.

Moreover, advancement in the rankings strengthens the university’s international reputation, increases its visibility in the global academic community, and demonstrates its contribution to the global SDG agenda. It also promotes cooperation with international organizations, universities, and research centers working in the field of sustainable development.

Thus, participation in THE Impact Rankings serves not only as a tool for international positioning but also as a mechanism for institutional development and transformation.

Methodology for the Implementation of the 17 SDGs and Strategic Significance for IKTU

Priority SDGs and Key Implementation Areas (2025-2029)

Institutional Model for SDG Implementation at IKTU

Effective implementation of the SDG Strategy at IKTU requires the formation of a systematic institutional management model that ensures the coordination of activities across all university departments. This model is aimed at integrating the principles of sustainable development into the educational, research, administrative, and infrastructural activities of the university.

Organizational Structure for SDG Implementation

The strategy is implemented at several levels of management:

Strategic Level:

At the strategic level, overall leadership of the SDG Strategy is carried out by the university administration. This level defines the main directions of sustainable development policy, makes strategic decisions, and ensures the integration of SDG principles into the university’s development program.

Coordination Level:

Coordination of SDG implementation activities is performed by specialized university units – the Center for Strategic Development, Ranking and Standardization, and the Research Center for Sustainable Development. These centers are responsible for developing strategic initiatives, monitoring sustainability indicators, preparing analytical materials, and coordinating inter-faculty projects.

Operational Level:

At the operational level, faculties, research institutes, and administrative units implement specific activities within the framework of the SDG Strategy Action Plan. Their work includes introducing educational programs, conducting research, developing environmental initiatives, and implementing social projects.

Key Mechanisms for Strategy Implementation

To ensure the effective integration of sustainable development principles into university activities, the following mechanisms are used:

• Integration of SDGs into educational programs and research;
• Development of interdisciplinary research projects addressing environmental and social issues;
• Implementation of sustainable management principles for university infrastructure;
• Expansion of international cooperation and participation in global sustainability initiatives;
• Implementation of environmental and social projects at both university and regional levels.

Monitoring and Evaluation System

To assess the effectiveness of the SDG Strategy, a monitoring system based on key performance indicators (KPIs) is established. Monitoring is carried out regularly and includes:

• Annual analysis of target achievement;
• Preparation of SDG implementation reports;
• Participation in international sustainability rankings, including THE Impact Rankings and QS Sustainability Rankings;
• Assessment of the university’s contribution to solving socio-economic and environmental challenges in the region.

Expected Outcomes of the Management Model Implementation

Implementation of the institutional SDG management model will ensure a systematic approach to the university’s sustainable development and achieve the following outcomes:

• Integration of sustainable development principles across all university activities;
• Increased effectiveness of educational and research activities;
• Strengthening the international academic reputation of IKTU;
• Development of an environmentally sustainable campus;
• Enhanced contribution of the university to the sustainable development of the region and the country.

Thus, the established management model provides comprehensive implementation of the sustainable development strategy and contributes to strengthening IKTU’s role as a leading scientific and educational center focused on addressing contemporary global challenges.

IKTU SDG Implementation Roadmap (2025–2029)

1. GOV (Governance & Strategy) – Sustainable development management and strategic SDG integration.

2. EDU (Education for Sustainable Development) – Education for sustainable development.

3. RES (Research & Publications) – SDG-related research and publications.

4. PART (International Partnerships & Collaboration) – International partnerships and cooperation in sustainable development.

5. CAMP (Green Campus & Infrastructure) – Ecological infrastructure and a “green campus.”

6. CLIM (Climate Action & Carbon Management) – Climate policy and carbon footprint management.

7. SOC (Social Responsibility & Community Engagement) – Social responsibility and community engagement.

8. INNOV (Innovation & Sustainable Economy) – Innovation and sustainable economic development.

9. DATA (SDG Data, Analytics & Monitoring) – Monitoring and analytics system for SDG indicators.

10. RANK (THE Impact Rankings & Global Sustainability Rankings) – Promotion of the university in international sustainability rankings.

GOV Block – SDG Governance

EDU Block – Education for SDG

RES Block – Research & Publications

PART Block – International Partnerships

CAMP Block – Green Campus

SOC Block – Social Responsibility & Community Engagement

INNOV Block – Innovation & Sustainable Economy

DATA Block – SDG Data, Analytics & Monitoring

RANK Block – International Sustainability Rankings

The implementation of this roadmap will ensure the systematic integration of sustainable development principles across all areas of university activity, including education, research, infrastructure management, and international cooperation. The consistent execution of planned activities will enhance institutional effectiveness, strengthen the international academic reputation of IKTU, and increase its contribution to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

RACI Roles Definition

GOV Block – Governance & SDG Strategy

EDU Block – Education for Sustainable Development

RES Block – Research & Publications

CAMP Block – Green Campus

CLIM Block – Climate Action

PART Block – International Partnerships

SOC Block – Community Engagement

INNOV Block – Innovation

DATA Block – Monitoring & Analytics

RANK Block – Rankings

3. Implementation Plan of the SDG Strategy

Phase 1 (2025–2026): Establishing the Sustainable Development Management System

• Establishment of an institutional SDG governance structure (SDG Office / Sustainable Development Research Center) and appointment of responsible coordinators for each SDG area.
• Conducting a baseline assessment across all 17 SDGs, with a focus on SDG 3, 4, 8, 13, and 17.
• Implementation of a data collection, verification, and monitoring system (SDG Data Dashboard integrated with Power BI).
• Initiation of regular greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions accounting (Scope 1, Scope 2, pilot Scope 3) in accordance with the GHG Protocol.
• Participation in international initiatives: THE Impact Rankings, UN SDG Accord, Race to Zero.
• Launch of a university-wide SDG awareness and communication campaign among students and staff.

Phase 2 (2027–2028): Integration of SDGs into University Activities

• Integration of SDG indicators into KPIs of structural units and individual academic staff performance plans.
• Embedding sustainable development principles into academic curricula (SDG-based curriculum design).
• Expansion of research activities aligned with priority SDGs (environment, health, sustainable agriculture, energy).
• Implementation of energy efficiency and carbon reduction projects (transition toward a Carbon Neutral Campus model).
• Strengthening international partnerships within the framework of SDG 17 (joint research, grants, academic consortia).
• Scaling up social and regional development projects (SDG 3, 4, 8).

Phase 3 (2029): Leadership in Sustainable Development

• Strengthening the university’s position in THE Impact Rankings (Top 700) and participation in QS Sustainability Rankings.
• Achieving measurable progress in priority SDGs (SDG 3, 4, 8, 13, 17).
• Transition toward a Climate Neutral University model with a clear Net Zero trajectory by 2050.
• Establishment of the university as a regional center of excellence — “Sustainable Development Hub of the Turkic World.”
• Publication of an annual integrated Sustainability Report (ESG/SDG Report).

4. Monitoring and Reporting

Reporting format:

• quarterly analytical reports on SDG implementation;
• annual Sustainability Report (SDG/ESG);
• annual greenhouse gas emissions report (Scope 1, Scope 2, Scope 3).

Responsible unit: Center for Sustainable Development / Sustainable Development Research Center (or integrated with the Strategic Development and Quality Center).

Monitoring participants:

• Academic Affairs Department
• Research Department
• Infrastructure and Sustainability Department
• International Relations Office
• PR and Communications Department
• HR Department
• Finance and Economics Department

Feedback mechanisms:

• quarterly strategic sessions with deans and research institute directors;
• regular updates and adjustments of the SDG roadmap;
• internal faculty ranking system based on SDG performance indicators;
• digital visualization tools (Power BI, SDG Dashboard);
• public reporting and transparency of sustainability data.

5. Conclusion

The implementation of the SDG Strategy will ensure:

• systematic integration of sustainable development principles into education, research, and governance;
• increased contribution to solving global socio-economic and environmental challenges;
• strengthened positions in global sustainability rankings (THE Impact Rankings, QS Sustainability);
• reduction of the university’s environmental footprint and transition to a low-carbon development model;
• enhancement of social responsibility and regional impact;
• expansion of international cooperation and partnerships within the SDG 17 framework.

In the long term, the strategy will establish a sustainable institutional development model and position the university as a leading center for sustainable development in the Turkic world, fully integrated into the global academic and sustainability agenda.
2025

The year our institution has publicly committed to reaching net-zero.