From Trend to Transformation: Exploring the Drivers of Thai Higher Education in Advancing Sustainability

Abstract

          This article examines how Thailand’s higher education institutions have advanced the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) from the COVID-19 period to 2025. It uses a qualitative approach to explore how universities understand, interpret, and apply sustainability in their work. The study draws on a 2021 national survey of universities’ views on the SDGs, together with online questionnaires, focus group discussions, and in-depth interviews. Secondary data from 2022 to 2025 were also analysed to observe trends in how the higher education system has evolved and what factors have shaped these changes. The findings show that many Thai universities have incorporated the SDGs into their strategies through teaching, research, and community engagement. Awareness of sustainability has become more widespread, yet much of the progress continues to be influenced by external forces such as international ranking systems and the expectations of the private sector for universities to align with ESG standards. Competition for reputation and funding also shapes how universities set their priorities, often resulting in short-term projects rather than sustained institutional change. Some universities, however, are beginning to build stronger connections with government, business, and civil society, signalling a gradual shift toward a more engaged civic role. The study concludes that while sustainability is now part of the academic landscape in Thailand, the transition toward a learning system that genuinely supports sustainable development is still unfolding. More institutional flexibility, academic autonomy, and collaboration across sectors will be essential to move from compliance toward meaningful and locally grounded integration of sustainability in higher education.