Assessing the integration of sustainable development goals into core operations of Wolaita Sodo University from a holistic institutional perspective

Research on the challenges Ethiopian universities face in integrating Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is limited, despite growing international interest. This study employs a mixed-methods approach to evaluate the extent of SDG integration at Wolaita Sodo University (WSU) into teaching, research, community outreach, and governance. A stratified random sampling method was used to survey university leaders, faculty members, administrative staff, and community engagement officers and documents were selected purposeful. Quantitative data were collected by closed-ended questionnaires; while qualitative data were collected using open-ended questions and reviewing policy documents. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics whereas the qualitative data were analyzed using thematic content analysis and SDGs mapping. The findings show moderate but uneven SDG alignment across WSU’s policies, curricula, research, and community engagement, with persistent gaps in implementation, curriculum design, and stakeholder participation despite good pedagogical practices. The main problems observed were weak institutional commitment, limited resources, and faculty gaps in awareness. The study concludes that while initial efforts to mainstream SDGs at WSU are underway, there is a need for formal and effective measures to ensure successful implementation. Recommendations include establishing strong institutional policies mandating SDG integration, provide tailored faculty training to enhance sustainability literacy, and strengthening partnerships with local communities and stakeholders to feed into action-oriented initiatives. The policy implications are emphasizing the need that universities undertake concerted, quantifiable efforts towards integration of SDG and have buy-in from stakeholders as well as adequate resources earmarked.