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Khon Kaen University

Bachelor of Arts Program in International Affairs

SDG Alignment for Bachelor of Arts Program in International Affairs

Overall SDG Alignment Evaluation:

The Bachelor of Arts Program in International Affairs at Khon Kaen University is deeply interwoven with the principles of sustainable development. The curriculum's philosophy emphasizes producing graduates who understand contemporary global challenges and can contribute to national development and sustainable practices. With a dedicated major in International Development, the program directly addresses the core tenets of the SDGs. Courses focusing on international organizations, global governance, human rights, and international law create a strong foundation for SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions). The program fosters a global perspective, essential for SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), by analyzing international cooperation and the roles of various global actors. It explicitly tackles issues of inequality, cultural diversity, and social development, aligning with SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) and SDG 5 (Gender Equality). By studying global economic development, public policy, and entrepreneurship, the curriculum supports SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure). As an advanced academic program, it is a direct contributor to SDG 4 (Quality Education), preparing students to be responsible and effective global citizens.

SDG Related Course(s)

SDG 1 Icon SDG 1: No Poverty

Alignment Summary: The curriculum provides a strong foundation for understanding the multidimensional nature of poverty. Through the International Development major, students analyze the root causes of poverty and study the policies and strategies aimed at its eradication, including economic development, foreign aid, and the role of international cooperation.

Course CodeCourse TitleAlignment Rationale
IC 243 005Contemporary Issues in International DevelopmentDirectly addresses poverty eradication as a key contemporary issue, aligning with the goal of ending poverty in all its forms everywhere (Targets 1.1 & 1.2).
IC 243 002Global Economic DevelopmentTeaches economic strategies and policies aimed at promoting growth in developing nations, which is essential for mobilizing resources for poverty reduction (Target 1.A).

SDG 4 Icon SDG 4: Quality Education

Alignment Summary: As a bachelor's degree program, the curriculum inherently provides quality tertiary education. It focuses on developing critical thinking, research, and analytical skills, preparing graduates for meaningful employment and lifelong learning. The program's content on global citizenship and sustainable development directly supports the educational aims of the SDGs.

Course CodeCourse TitleAlignment Rationale
IC 203 007Research Methodology in Political ScienceEquips students with advanced technical and research skills that are highly relevant for employment and further education (Target 4.4).
IC 204 796 / IC 244 796Internship in International Relations / DevelopmentProvides students with practical and professional skills for employment, enhancing their transition into the workforce and promoting lifelong learning opportunities (Target 4.3 & 4.4).
IC 011 014Citizenship and Democratic SocietyFosters the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development and global citizenship (Target 4.7).

SDG 5 Icon SDG 5: Gender Equality

Alignment Summary: The program addresses gender equality as a core component of international development and human rights. Students study the systemic barriers to gender equality and explore policies and movements aimed at empowering women and girls globally.

Course CodeCourse TitleAlignment Rationale
IC 243 005Contemporary Issues in International DevelopmentExplicitly addresses gender inequality and the empowerment of women as a critical topic in global development, aligning with targets to end discrimination and ensure full participation (Target 5.1 & 5.5).

SDG 8 Icon SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

Alignment Summary: The curriculum equips students with a deep understanding of the global economy, trade policies, and development strategies. It fosters skills in entrepreneurship and management, preparing graduates to contribute to sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth.

Course CodeCourse TitleAlignment Rationale
IC 201 002Principles of EconomicsProvides knowledge of economic systems and policies that promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth (Target 8.1).
IC 243 002Global Economic DevelopmentDirectly addresses policies and strategies for achieving higher levels of economic productivity and sustained growth (Target 8.2).
IC 011 019Creative EntrepreneurshipFosters entrepreneurship and creativity for new venture creation, contributing to economic diversification and job creation (Target 8.3).

SDG 9 Icon SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

Alignment Summary: This program promotes an understanding of the role of innovation and technology in global development. Courses on entrepreneurship and the application of technology encourage students to develop creative solutions to societal challenges, thereby fostering innovation and supporting sustainable industrialization.

Course CodeCourse TitleAlignment Rationale
IC 011 019Creative EntrepreneurshipPromotes entrepreneurship, a key driver of innovation and the development of sustainable industries (Target 9.2 & 9.3).
IC 011 017Science and Technology Application for LifeEnhances scientific literacy and the application of technology, which are crucial for upgrading technological capabilities and fostering innovation (Target 9.5).

SDG 10 Icon SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

Alignment Summary: A central theme of the program is the analysis of inequalities both within and among countries. Students study the political, economic, and social dimensions of inequality and are encouraged to develop a nuanced understanding of cultural diversity, promoting principles of inclusion and equity.

Course CodeCourse TitleAlignment Rationale
IC 011 011Cultural DiversityFosters intercultural understanding and respect for diversity, which is fundamental to promoting the social, economic and political inclusion of all (Target 10.2).
IC 201 004Introduction to International AffairsIntroduces students to the issue of global inequality and the importance of human rights, aligning with efforts to reduce inequality among countries (Target 10.3).
IC 203 003International Political Economy in the Greater Mekong SubregionAnalyzes economic inequality and the role of foreign aid, providing insights into policies aimed at reducing disparities (Target 10.B).

SDG 11 Icon SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

Alignment Summary: The curriculum addresses the critical role of sustainable urban planning and development in a globalized world. Students learn about the challenges of urbanization and the importance of creating inclusive, safe, and resilient human settlements, supported by effective public policy.

Course CodeCourse TitleAlignment Rationale
IC 243 002Global Economic DevelopmentAddresses the challenges and strategies related to sustainable urbanization and human settlement planning (Target 11.3).
IC 243 003Sustainable DevelopmentProvides a holistic understanding of creating inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities, which is a key component of sustainable practices (Target 11.4).

SDG 12 Icon SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

Alignment Summary: The program promotes principles of sustainability that are crucial for responsible consumption and production. By studying sustainable development and corporate social responsibility, students learn about the importance of efficient resource use and the need for companies to adopt sustainable practices.

Course CodeCourse TitleAlignment Rationale
IC 243 003Sustainable DevelopmentDirectly educates on the sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources, a core principle of responsible production (Target 12.2).
IC 011 019Creative EntrepreneurshipEncourages future business leaders to adopt sustainable practices and integrate sustainability information into their corporate reporting (Target 12.6).

SDG 13 Icon SDG 13: Climate Action

Alignment Summary: The curriculum directly confronts the urgent need for climate action by integrating it as a key theme in international development. Students are educated on the causes and impacts of climate change and the importance of global cooperation to mitigate its effects and build resilience.

Course CodeCourse TitleAlignment Rationale
IC 243 003Sustainable DevelopmentEducates on the impacts of climate change and the need for global action, strengthening resilience and adaptive capacity (Target 13.1).
IC 243 005Contemporary Issues in International DevelopmentImproves education and awareness-raising on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning (Target 13.3).

SDG 16 Icon SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

Alignment Summary: This program is fundamentally aligned with SDG 16, as it focuses on the institutions, laws, and political systems that govern societies. Students gain a deep understanding of international law, global governance, human rights, and conflict resolution, preparing them to contribute to building peaceful, just, and inclusive institutions.

Course CodeCourse TitleAlignment Rationale
IC 201 001Introduction to Political ScienceProvides foundational knowledge on governance structures, essential for developing effective, accountable and transparent institutions (Target 16.6).
IC 202 012International LawDirectly promotes the rule of law at the international level and ensures understanding of global justice systems (Target 16.3).
IC 202 011International OrganizationsDevelops understanding of effective global institutions and their role in promoting peace and justice (Target 16.8).
IC 011 014Citizenship and Democratic SocietyPromotes responsive, inclusive, and participatory decision-making by educating on democratic principles and human rights (Target 16.7).

SDG 17 Icon SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

Alignment Summary: The entire curriculum is built around the concept of global partnership. By studying international affairs, diplomacy, and the function of international organizations, students learn the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration to address complex global challenges and achieve sustainable development.

Course CodeCourse TitleAlignment Rationale
IC 201 004Introduction to International AffairsProvides a comprehensive understanding of the global system, which is the foundation for enhancing the global partnership for sustainable development (Target 17.16).
IC 202 011International OrganizationsDirectly studies the multi-stakeholder partnerships that mobilize and share knowledge to support the achievement of the SDGs (Target 17.16).
IC 203 003International Political Economy in the Greater Mekong SubregionExamines North-South, South-South and regional cooperation as key mechanisms for implementing the SDGs (Target 17.9).