The University of the West Indies Launches Global Online Graduate Business School Focused on Leadership and Sustainable Development Goals
About the University of the West Indies’ International School for Development Justice
After almost two years of finalising its operational procedures and negotiations, The University of the West Indies (The UWI) is set to launch its first-of-its-kind global online graduate business school focused on leadership within the context of supporting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Launch Event Details
On Wednesday, Aug. 21, the launch event will be hosted as a hybrid ceremony at the Headquarters of The UWI’s Global Campus in Barbados at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Caribbean Time.
About the International School for Development Justice
Funded by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and endorsed by the United Nations (UN), The UWI’s new International School for Development Justice (ISDJ) was established to respond to the need to educate and empower current and future activists and leaders within the framework of the 17 United Nations SDGs.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Hilary Beckles describes the Institute as “the largest and most transformative global project” ever undertaken by the regional University. He noted, “We have the keen support of the United Nations and its many relevant departments, including the United Nations University headquartered in Tokyo. The IDB, our financial partner, has been particularly supportive. Many other universities, such as SUNY, Glasgow, Johannesburg, and the Sustainable Development Solutions Network, located at Columbia University and led by Professor Jeffrey Sachs, are engaged allies.”
The UWI’s Unique Position
The UWI is now the only University with such an enterprise. The idea of establishing a global online business school for the SDGs was birthed to leverage The UWI’s two decades of experience and excellence in online education through its Global Campus, its strategic focus on the SDGs, and its global recognition as a leading producer of knowledge on Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Significantly, The UWI earned a perfect score of 100% for its relationships to support the goals in pursuit of SDG 17: Partnership for the Goals in the recently announced Times Higher Education Impact Rankings.
Courses and Admissions
Currently accepting applications for January 2025 admissions, among the ISDJ offerings include Master’s degrees in Climate Studies, Sustainable Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Public Health and Informatics, Sustainability and Data Analytics, Sustainability Management and more. As part of its introductory courses, Professor Jeffrey Sachs, UN advisor and global leader in sustainable development, will lead a masterclass on the Sustainable Development Goals. ISDJ has named Sachs among its Honorary Distinguished Fellows from around the world, who will contribute to the Institute’s scholarship and teaching.
From January 2025 onwards, the complete suite will comprise over a dozen laddered asynchronous online graduate programmes, ranging from one-year Master’s degrees to shorter micro-credentials at the Certificate and Diploma levels.
Conclusion
The University of the West Indies’ International School for Development Justice is a groundbreaking initiative that addresses the urgent need for sustainable development and climate action. With its unique blend of online education, global partnerships, and interdisciplinary approaches, ISDJ is poised to make a significant impact in the world.
FAQs
Q: When is the launch event?
A: The launch event will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 21, at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Caribbean Time.
Q: What are the ISDJ offerings?
A: ISDJ offers a range of Master’s degrees, including Climate Studies, Sustainable Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Public Health and Informatics, Sustainability and Data Analytics, and Sustainability Management.
Q: Who will be leading the introductory courses?
A: Professor Jeffrey Sachs, UN advisor and global leader in sustainable development, will lead a masterclass on the Sustainable Development Goals.
Q: When are applications open for January 2025 admissions?
A: Applications are currently open for January 2025 admissions.