SDG 17 – PARTNERSHIPS FOR THE GOALS
Sustainability at “Alexandru Ioan Cuza” University of Iași
“Alexandru Ioan Cuza” University of Iași (UAIC), the oldest higher education institution in Romania, is strongly committed to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through an integrated approach that combines education, research, institutional governance, and community engagement.
UAIC promotes sustainability as a core institutional value, embedding it in strategic planning, academic programs, infrastructure development, and partnerships at local, national, and international levels.
A Holistic Approach to Sustainable Development
UAIC contributes to multiple SDGs through coordinated actions that address social, environmental, and economic dimensions of sustainability.
Social Inclusion and Equal Opportunities (SDG 1, SDG 4, SDG 5)
The university actively supports students from disadvantaged backgrounds through:
- social scholarships, subsidized accommodation, and meal support
- mentoring, counselling, and career guidance services
- dedicated projects such as AccED and EduACCES, promoting access to higher education
UAIC ensures inclusive and equitable education through:
- non-discrimination policies and gender equality plans
- lifelong learning programs and vocational training
- support for vulnerable groups, including first-generation students and refugees
Health, Well-being, and Quality of Life (SDG 3)
UAIC promotes a healthy academic environment by providing:
- access to medical and psychological services
- mental health programs and awareness campaigns
- workshops and initiatives supporting well-being and work-life balance
The university also contributes to research on public health, mental health, and environmental factors affecting human well-being.
Environmental Sustainability and Climate Action (SDG 6, SDG 7, SDG 13)
UAIC integrates environmental responsibility into campus operations and research activities through:
- energy-efficient infrastructure and building modernization
- renewable energy solutions (solar and photovoltaic systems)
- water management and environmental protection initiatives
- advanced research infrastructure such as CERNESIM and RECENT AIR
The university supports climate education and innovation through European projects such as e-InnoEduCO₂, contributing to climate literacy and sustainable development competencies.
Sustainable Communities and Urban Engagement (SDG 11)
UAIC plays an active role in the development of sustainable cities through:
- participation in the Iași NetZero City Coalition
- contribution to the Iași 2035 urban sustainability strategy
- modernization of campus infrastructure to improve safety, inclusiveness, and environmental performance
The university also promotes public access to cultural heritage, museums, and educational resources, strengthening community engagement.
Strong Institutions, Governance, and Social Responsibility (SDG 16)
UAIC fosters a transparent, ethical, and inclusive institutional environment through:
- a comprehensive Code of Ethics and governance framework
- anti-corruption, anti-discrimination, and academic integrity policies
- active involvement in research and dialogue on democracy, human rights, and public governance
The university contributes to training future professionals in law, public administration, and policy-making, strengthening institutional capacity at national and European levels.
Partnerships for Sustainable Development (SDG 17)
UAIC collaborates extensively with:
- international university alliances such as EC2U
- public authorities, NGOs, and private sector partners
- European and global research networks
These partnerships support knowledge exchange, innovation, and the implementation of sustainability solutions across multiple sectors.
Commitment to a Sustainable Future
UAIC’s sustainability strategy is built on:
- evidence-based policies
- continuous investment in infrastructure and research
- strong stakeholder engagement
- alignment with European and global sustainability frameworks
Through its actions, UAIC contributes to building a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable society, positioning itself as a key academic actor in Romania and a reliable partner in international sustainability efforts.