Student Leaders' Engagement with the Sustainable Development Goals

This study examines the extent of engagement of student leaders at St. Paul University Philippines (SPUP) in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through various leadership initiatives and activities. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research evaluates student leaders’ involvement in sustainability efforts and identifies key practices and challenges in leading SDG-related initiatives. A total of 239 student leaders participated in the study, assessing their engagement across the 17 SDGs. Findings indicate a very great extent of engagement. Complementing the quantitative data, qualitative interviews explored participants’ experiences, practices, and challenges in spearheading SDG-related activities. Results highlight the significant role of student leaders in promoting environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and community development. The study also emphasizes the importance of strong institutional support, including adequate training and resources, to strengthen sustainability leadership. By aligning student initiatives with global sustainable development objectives, SPUP reinforces its role as a transformative educational institution—preparing future leaders with the skills, values, and motivation to drive meaningful change within their communities and beyond.