On 16 October 2026, the International Engineering and Technological University (METU) hosted a meeting between students, faculty members and Meirgul Kikymovna Alpysbayeva, National Programme Officer for Education at the UNESCO Regional Office in Almaty. The event focused on the role of quality education in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and preparing young people to address global challenges.

The meeting was organized by METU’s Department of International Cooperation. The speaker delivered a presentation entitled “Education for Sustainable Development and Climate Change Education: UNESCO Standards and Guidelines,” introducing the university community to international approaches to updating educational content.

The presentation centred on SDG 4 “Quality Education,” which promotes equal educational opportunities and lifelong learning. Meirgul Alpysbayeva paid particular attention to Target 4.7, which connects education with sustainable lifestyles, respect for human rights, a culture of peace and an appreciation of cultural diversity.

The speaker explored the competencies needed to address contemporary social and environmental challenges. These include systems thinking, critical thinking, the ability to anticipate the consequences of decisions, collaboration and integrated problem-solving. The UNESCO approaches presented during the meeting encompass knowledge acquisition, the development of social skills and the ability to put learning into practice.

A separate part of the presentation addressed the “Education for Sustainable Development for 2030” roadmap and the Greening Education Partnership. Participants learned about the initiative’s four areas of action: developing environmentally sustainable educational institutions, integrating climate education into curricula, strengthening teacher training and engaging local communities.

In discussing climate change education, the UNESCO representative highlighted its interdisciplinary nature. The presentation connected climate issues with biodiversity conservation, responsible consumption, resource use and sustainable lifestyles. The speaker also introduced educational resources and initiatives addressing climate challenges in Central Asia.

The active participation of METU students and faculty members added particular depth to the meeting. Participants asked questions, discussed the approaches presented and exchanged views with the speaker. This open dialogue provided an opportunity to explore international recommendations in greater detail and consider their relevance to today’s educational environment. The meeting created a space for direct engagement between a UNESCO representative and the university community.

For METU, these discussions are particularly relevant to preparing professionals who can consider the social and environmental consequences of their decisions. Learning about UNESCO’s approaches helps connect university education with the UN’s global goals and encourages reflection on the contribution each individual can make to sustainable development.

The International Engineering and Technological University extends its gratitude to Meirgul Kikymovna Alpysbayeva for her insightful presentation, open dialogue and the educational resources she shared.