Internationalisation at Home (IaH) and its contribution to UN’s Sustainable Development Goals in Irish Higher Education Institutions

In the context of Ireland's rich cultural and historical landscape, Internationalisation at Home (IaH) emerges as a catalyst for fostering sustainable development and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Rooted in Ireland's identity as the land of 'saints and scholars,' IaH represents a paradigm shift in Irish higher education, aiming to provide all students with global competencies within their domestic learning environments.
This abstract explores how IaH contributes to the SDGs in the Irish context, aligning with the thematic focus of the Conference on Sustainability and Collaboration. Against the backdrop of Ireland's social, religious, historical, and political change journey, IaH embodies the spirit of collaboration and shared destiny, breaking down divides and cultivating a culture of inclusivity and innovation.

By integrating international and intercultural dimensions into the formal and informal curriculum for all students, IaH addresses disparities in international mobility experiences, ensuring that every student, regardless of socio-economic, physical, or personal constraints, has access to global learning opportunities. This approach not only promotes cultural awareness and understanding but also cultivates cross-cultural communication skills and global citizenship, aligning with SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 10 (Reducing Inequalities).

Furthermore, IaH strives to provide collaborative research and innovation tools, transcending disciplinary boundaries and fostering interdisciplinary dialogue. Through partnerships between academia, industry, and the community, IaH can contribute to SDG 17 (Partnership for the Goals), driving progress towards sustainable development and societal impact. Furthermore, IaH can play a crucial role in addressing climate action and promoting peace, justice, and strong institutions. By nurturing environmental awareness and fostering cross-cultural understanding, IaH can contribute to SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), laying the groundwork for a more sustainable and harmonious society.

In summary, this poster highlights how IaH embodies Ireland's spirit of resilience, empathy, and desire for new knowledge, contributing to advancing the SDGs and fostering a more sustainable and inclusive society. It serves as an extension of the presentation on 'SETU Sustainability in the Arts Festival - a tale of a modern Meitheal'. As Ireland reflects on 100+ Years of the Irish State, IaH can emerge as a cornerstone of sustainable development, bridging past traditions with future aspirations.