Tackling SDGs in higher education: the case of Ca’ Foscari University

The achievement of the 2030 Agenda requires the contribution of all societal actors, including higher education institutions. Recognized by the United Nations as key drivers of sustainable development, universities have progressively expanded their traditional missions of teaching and research to address broader societal challenges through the so-called Third Mission. In this context, the study adopts Stakeholder Theory to investigate the role of universities in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The research focuses on Ca’ Foscari University of Venice and its Venice School of Management (VSM), examining stakeholders’ perceptions of the university’s commitment to the 2030 Agenda. A longitudinal case study approach is adopted, based on two survey waves conducted in 2021 and 2025 among students, academic staff, and technical-administrative personnel. The analysis compares perceptions over time and explores potential differences between the university community as a whole and stakeholders affiliated with the VSM. The findings reveal a high level of awareness of sustainability issues and a widespread recognition of the role universities can play in achieving the SDGs. Between 2021 and 2025, stakeholders’ priorities shifted from predominantly environmental concerns, particularly climate change, toward broader social and geopolitical challenges, including poverty, inequality, peace, and justice. Respondents also expressed increasing expectations regarding the university’s responsibility to actively contribute to sustainable development and demonstrated a strong willingness to engage in sustainability initiatives. The comparison between Ca’ Foscari and the Venice School of Management shows substantial convergence in perceptions and priorities. While VSM stakeholders place greater emphasis on education, research, innovation, and sustainable economic growth, the results suggest that sustainability integration is shared across the entire university community. The thesis concludes by providing strategic recommendations to strengthen stakeholder engagement and support the university’s contribution to the SDGs.