Geneva: Under the auspices of the State of Qatar’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations Office in Geneva, the International Sustainability Conference 2024, organized by the World Association for Sustainable Development (WASD), commenced today at the UN headquarters in Geneva.

The conference runs from July 22 to 25 and focuses on accelerating the implementation of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda and its 17 goals, highlighting the crucial role of educational institutions.

In her opening speech, Qatar’s Permanent Representative to the UN Office in Geneva, HE Dr. Hend bint Abdulrahman Al Muftah, detailed the State of Qatar’s efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), highlighting the involvement of Qatari academic institutions in supporting national development strategies through innovation, scientific research, implementation, monitoring, and follow-up.

HE Dr. Al Muftah highlighted that education is a top priority for Qatar and a key tool in its pursuit of the SDGs, pointing out that investment in quality education remains a cornerstone for economic development, societal advancement, and achieving growth and prosperity.

Her Excellency also noted that Qatar leverages research, development, and innovation to implement the 2030 SDGs and boost productivity, guided by Qatar National Vision 2030. She added that Qatar has established a robust social protection system that ensures comprehensive access to healthcare and education, positioning the country high in regional and global human development indices.

HE Dr. Al Muftah pointed out Qatar’s strong commitment to environmentally friendly solutions, including diversifying energy sources, investing in solar energy, and expanding natural solutions. Additionally, Qatar has heavily invested in information and communication technology to enhance sustainability and expedite SDGs implementation.

Her Excellency affirmed that universities play a vital role in achieving the SDGs by disseminating knowledge, generating ideas, assisting governments and policymakers, and equipping them with the tools needed to devise strategies and address various crises and challenges.

The World Association for Sustainable Development (WASD) is a global forum established in London, UK, in 2000. The forum gathers experts worldwide to discuss sustainable development, science and technology management, and promotes knowledge and experience sharing among academics, scientists, professionals, policymakers, and students. This collaboration aims to enhance mutual understanding of the roles of science and technology in realizing the United Nations’ 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda and its 17 goals.