Khon Kaen University

SDG Alignment Analysis

Overall SDG Alignment Evaluation:

The Master of Science Program in Biotechnology is a cornerstone of Khon Kaen University's commitment to sustainable development, leveraging cutting-edge science to address critical global challenges. The curriculum is designed to produce innovators capable of developing sustainable solutions in agriculture, health, and environmental management. The program makes a powerful and direct contribution to SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) through its focus on agricultural, animal, food, and medical biotechnology. It drives progress towards SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) by fostering the development of novel bioprocesses and technologies. Through its emphasis on environmental biotechnology, including bioremediation and waste valorization, the program strongly supports SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 15 (Life on Land). As an advanced research-based degree, it is a pillar of SDG 4 (Quality Education) and embodies the collaborative, multi-stakeholder approach required for SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Best Practices

        The Master of Science Program in Biotechnology of Khon Kaen University has been strategically restructured to serve as a principal mechanism for producing top-tier professionals capable of driving innovation for the Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) Economy Model. This national agenda is a key strategy for mitigating global environmental and economic crises. The curriculum emphasises the integration of advanced scientific disciplines to address inefficient resource utilisation and generate added economic value.
        Students are expected to conduct in-depth research throughout the thesis process, creating new knowledge and technologies while critically analysing and synthesising the latest research in specialised seminar courses (Biotechnology Seminar 1 and 2), preparing them to become internationally competitive researchers. Specialised knowledge, delivered through courses such as Environmental Biotechnology (TE 027 751) and Business Challenges in Food Innovation Biotechnology (TE 027 741), is applied to create high-value products in the biotechnology industry.
        Tangible outcomes include pioneering research in clean energy and sustainable waste management, such as studies on biohydrogen production from algal biomass through anaerobic fermentation. These research projects are required to be published in national or international academic journals, confirming the program's capacity to transfer knowledge to industry and communities.
        The sustainable impact of this program is the advancement of national development toward industrial and innovation progress (SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by producing highly skilled personnel who create and transfer innovative biotechnologies; the promotion of responsible consumption and production (SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production) through the application of biotechnology principles for waste management and efficient use of bioresources under the BCG model; and a focus on research for sustainable clean energy (SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy), reinforcing Khon Kaen University's mission as a leader in biotechnology for a sustainable global future.