Khon Kaen University

SDG Alignment for Bachelor of Science in Information Technology

Overall SDG Alignment Evaluation:

The Bachelor of Science Program in Information Technology at Khon Kaen University is engineered to produce "innovators" who can seamlessly integrate IT with the business and industrial sectors to drive sustainable development. The curriculum's philosophy, focused on creating graduates with international-standard knowledge who are ethical, socially responsible, and capable of creative problem-solving, is inherently aligned with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. The program is a major contributor to SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), as it provides the core competencies for building the digital infrastructure of the future. Courses in software development, network management, cloud computing, and blockchain technology are crucial for upgrading industries and fostering innovation. This directly fuels SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by producing a highly skilled workforce for the digital economy and fostering entrepreneurship through courses on digital startups. On a societal level, the program supports SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) through its emphasis on IT Law and Ethics and Digital Forensics, which are vital for building transparent, accountable, and secure digital systems. It also connects to SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), as graduates are equipped to develop smart city solutions. As a higher education program, it is a clear embodiment of SDG 4 (Quality Education), and the global, collaborative nature of technology naturally promotes SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Best Practices

        The Bachelor of Science Program in Information Technology (College of Computing) at Khon Kaen University (KKU) has demonstrated its commitment to driving public sector administration and elevating community well-being with advanced digital technology, recognizing the challenges of the volatile modern world (BANI World) and the urgent necessity to apply Big Data to promote public sector governance and the care of vulnerable populations.
        Therefore, the program has continuously organized integrated academic service activities under the theme "Driving Digital Skills and Big Data to Elevate Public Sector Governance and Community Health". This includes transferring knowledge on Big Data Analytic for Adult and Older Care and organizing workshops to reinforce the Digital Skills of Public Administrators and the creation of new-generation leaders under the Ministry of Public Health, as well as holding a Health Technology Webinar focusing on User Interface Design (UX/UI Design) to meet the diverse needs of the population. These activities integrate specialized knowledge in Big Data Analytics, Health Informatics, and Inclusive Design to be applied in organizational administration and the development of public service systems.
        The evident result is that participants from various sectors-including mid-level executives of government agencies, faculty members, researchers, and medical personnel-gained a deep understanding and developed competency in effectively utilizing data and digital technology to drive policy and digital risk management. They are able to apply the technology to create equity in access to health services and promote inclusiveness in both urban and rural environments.
        This led to a widespread sustainable impact through the creation of strong cooperation networks between the academic institution and public agencies (especially the Ministry of Public Health) to drive the transition towards a high-governance Digital Government, while also promoting the development of health innovation that addresses the aging society and elevates the quality of life of underserved communities. This operation is therefore strategically aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being (by using technology to ensure everyone can access health services), SDG 4: Quality Education (by promoting lifelong learning and the development of essential digital skills for future careers), SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (by elevating the efficiency and transparency of public administration through data), and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals (which demonstrates the creation of strong cooperation to transfer knowledge and technology towards creating a sustainable social impact).