SDSN Egypt Launches at the Onsi Sawiris School of Business with Public Lecture by Prof. Jeffrey Sachs
On November 11, 2025, the John D. Gerhart Center for Philanthropy, Civic Engagement, and Responsible Business at the Onsi Sawiris School of Business celebrated the launch of the Egyptian chapter of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN Egypt). Marking a milestone for the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Egypt and the region, the celebration featured a public lecture delivered by the President of SDSN, Jeffrey Sachs, titled “Global and Local Pathways to Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals”.
A Milestone for Sustainable Development
Egypt has officially joined as the 11th network in Africa and the second in the Arab region, representing a significant step forward in advancing research and action on sustainable development in the region. SDSN Egypt is co-hosted by Galala University and The American University in Cairo, represented by the John D. Gerhart Center, and chaired by Prof. Ali Awni, director of the Center. The network will focus on promoting impactful research on responsible business practices, supporting evidence-based policymaking, and advancing education for sustainable development.
In his address, Prof. Sachs highlighted Egypt’s potential to drive progress toward regional and global sustainability through its abundant renewable energy resources and strategic geographic location. He affirmed, “Could Egypt run its economy on zero-carbon energy? The answer is without question, yes, very efficiently.” He further emphasized the importance of forging local pathways toward sustainability that consider the regional context to ensure lasting impact. The launch of SDSN Egypt represents a new step in amplifying national and regional voices informed by research and in-depth knowledge, pushing forward contextually driven sustainable development.
Universities as a Key Player
During his lecture, Prof. Sachs underlined the essential role educational institutions play in advancing sustainability initiatives. “Sustainable development is a long-term commitment, one that should be prepared for by consistent effort and research-driven decision-making.” He emphasized that universities are uniquely positioned to prepare current and future generations to uphold their commitment to the planet. By bringing together researchers, academics, practitioners, and students, institutions like the John D. Gerhart Center embody collective thinking to tackle complex issues such as the climate crisis and economic inequalities.
Prof. Sachs also stressed the importance of collaboration between academic institutions and civil society. He noted that partnerships cannot thrive in times of instability or conflict, emphasizing that consistency and peace are fundamental to sustainable development. “The most sustainable pillar [to sustainable development] is that there is peace and cooperation because this doesn’t get done in war. Sustainable development is about building, not destroying.”
Learn more by visiting the SDSN Egypt webpage.
