University chairs UN hub for decent work and economic growth

The University of Auckland has been appointed Chair for the United Nations Academic Impact Hub on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.

Through this prestigious role, the University is putting New Zealand on the world stage as a leader in advancing research, innovation, education and collaboration to promote inclusive economic development and fair employment practices. SDG 8 is central to building a sustainable future, emphasising the need for productive employment, entrepreneurial opportunities, and equitable economic growth that benefits all.

By assuming this position, the University strengthens its commitment to addressing complex challenges, such as income inequality, unemployment and labour rights, through academic research and industry partnerships.

“This appointment reflects our sustainability and global development leadership,” says Vice-Chancellor Professor Dawn Freshwater.

“As the Chair for SDG 8, Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland will contribute to shaping solutions that ensure economic growth is not only robust but also inclusive, equitable, and sustainable.”

The hub has more than 1600 member institutions in more than 150 countries that reach about 25 million people in education and research sectors around the world. As the Chair for SDG 8, the University will lead a global community, offering a significant opportunity to bring together thought leaders from around the world to turn ideas into action and share best practices through webinars, conferences and collaborative projects.
 

“Being named an academic impact hub for the United Nations is a fantastic opportunity for the University of Auckland Business School and New Zealand as a whole,” says Professor Susan Watson, Business School Dean and Director of the Juncture: Dialogues on Inclusive Capitalism centre.

“This recognition reflects our deep commitment to advancing Decent Work and Economic Growth through our collaborative and transformative approach to addressing pressing societal and economic challenges.”

At the heart of this effort is the University’s flagship centre, Juncture: Dialogues on Inclusive Capitalism. The centre’s focus on promoting ethical investment, responsible business practices, and equitable wealth distribution aligns with the goals of SDG 8.

“By fostering partnerships across industries and communities, the centre seeks to redefine capitalism to prioritise human dignity, social justice, and environmental stewardship,” says Watson.

This work is complemented by the expertise of the Centre for Research on Modern Slavery, which combats labour exploitation; the Aotearoa Centre for Enterprising Women, which empowers women entrepreneurs; and the Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, which drives forward-thinking solutions for economic resilience.

“Together, these initiatives enable us to create meaningful change and position New Zealand as a global leader in inclusive and sustainable growth,” says Watson.

The University’s Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) supports students and staff, who have created hundreds of start-ups, thousands of jobs and have raised more than $4.2 billion in capital.

CIE Director Darsel Keane says: “The United Nations’ goal of Decent Work and Economic Growth relates to the ability to simulate the economy and generate fair and meaningful jobs.

"Universities can contribute to this goal in many ways, including influencing corporate and government strategies and policy, bringing ideas to life through community engagement, as well as innovation and entrepreneurship.”

The University has a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem that includes UniServices, MedTech-iQ Tāmaki Makaurau, the New Zealand Product Accelerator, and the Newmarket Innovation Precinct.

“We’ve evidenced how powerful universities can be in generating prosperity,” says Keane.

“Many of New Zealand’s pioneering companies, such as Toku, Kami, Auror and Alimetry began through our Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.”

This appointment underscores the University’s standing as a leader in sustainability and highlights its dedication to aligning with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Together with its global partners, the University of Auckland is poised to drive transformative change toward a more equitable and prosperous future.