Michigan State University's Global Youth Advancement Network (GYAN) launched the Global Voices Webinar Series to showcase the work young global innovators are doing in relation to one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The series serves as a coordinating platform for research and outreach activities related to the various SDGs and connects young innovators with faculty and industry mentors who can help scale their work.
Episode #5 Innovations in the Food System (World Food Day Roundtable)
Episode #6 Sustainable Fashion Roundtable: Towards A More Sustainable Future for Fashion
Episode #7 SDG Action & Awareness Week 2024: MSU Student Panel
Episode #8 Empowering Youth with Disabilities
MSU is well positioned to help foster innovative strategies related to the UN SDGs, often led by youth. GYAN, in the office of International Studies and Programs, was established in August 2016 to enable faculty, staff, students and local and international partners access the resources they need to engage youth across the globe in cutting edge research and programs that transform individuals and communities.
On September 25, 2015, 193 world leaders articulated and ratified a new framework for global development – The 17 SDGs. These goals, which range from no poverty to new partnerships, are bold and ambitious. The sustainable development goals have, for instance, set out an aspirational vision for more sustainable food systems by 2030. However, as has been aptly stated, "a goal without a plan is just a wish."
Governments, corporations, and civil society organizations across the world are increasingly recognizing that, in order for the SDGs to be attained, all stakeholders are needed, especially young people with fresh ideas and openness to change, to help find new solutions to long-standing challenges.