At the 2025 UN High-Level Political Forum in New York, the University of Gothenburg’s SDG 8 Initiative and partners convened a side event on Decent Work and Economic Growth. Co-hosted by institutions from across the globe and supported by Ireland and Nigeria, the event gathered around 60 participants from academia, government, and civil society, including youth voices.
Speakers such as Ireland’s Minister for Climate, Environment and Energy, H.E. Princess Adejoke of Nigeria, and experts from the ILO and University of Gothenburg underscored the urgent need for higher education and research to inform inclusive and sustainable economic policies. Discussions highlighted the potential of academia to bridge knowledge and policy, foster innovation, and help ensure that progress towards SDG 8 benefits all.