University of Auckland to co-host global sustainability congress

The University of Auckland is set to take a leading role at the upcoming Times Higher Education Global Sustainable Development Congress, held in Istanbul from 16-19 June.

As regional co-host, the University will join global leaders, researchers and changemakers to explore urgent questions around sustainability, equity and the role of higher education in shaping a better future.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Dawn Freshwater, Deputy Dean of the Business School Andrew Patterson, Professor Niki Harré from the Faculty of Science and doctoral student William Sheard are part of the University delegation travelling to Türkiye.

“The University of Auckland is proud to help lead this important global conversation,” says Professor Freshwater.

“Now more than ever, universities must show courageous leadership – not just through research and teaching, but in how we act, how we collaborate and how we live our values. This Congress is an opportunity to share what we’ve learned, to challenge each other and to think boldly about the kind of future we want to help build.

“Together, we can shift what’s possible.”

Professor Freshwater will deliver a keynote address exploring the complex realities confronting university leaders today, from geopolitical tensions and demographic shifts to technological disruption and the erosion of trust.

She will also host a panel discussion on the role of higher education in advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on the gap between strategy and implementation, and the need for meaningful accountability across the sector.

Andrew Patterson will join a panel on how universities can harness research and innovation to address urgent global energy challenges. The session will explore the role of tertiary institutions in supporting the energy transition, from establishing research centres to building cross-sector partnerships and shaping policy for real-world impact.

Professor Niki Harré, head of the School of Psychology, will take part in a panel on preparing future generations to thrive in a sustainable economy. Her session will examine how universities can embed climate literacy and sustainability mindsets into education, and how experiential learning can build the resilience and adaptability needed for an uncertain future.

The University’s presence at the Congress will also include a paperless, experiential exhibit, where visitors can explore interactive VR experiences and connect directly with members of the University’s delegation.