Mapping Research Contributions to Sustainable Development Goals: A Case Study of Birla Global University

Abstract

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDG) comprises many areas of research which represent real-world challenges to be solved by conducting scholarly and scientific work. Various conferences, research papers, and case studies assist in tracking and evaluating SDG implementation across the globe. This study aims to assess, through scholarly research papers, the contribution of Birla Global University (BGU) to Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and how research findings align with the SDG. Due to significant research contribution to SDG Birla Global University was selected as the sample by using the SDG data mapping tool in Scopus. The data-driven approach in Scopus showed that BGU had published 186 research papers by 48 scholars, 15 of which mapped to the SDG. A more comprehensive analysis showed that 14 of the papers met more than one SDG, such as SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 15 (Life on Land), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) most frequently addressed topics in BGU research publications. Most research articles emphasized on economic resilience, job opportunities, financial inclusion, and sustainable business (SDG 8); followed by SDG 17, which reflects the enormous contribution of the institution to worldwide sustainability goals. It is recommended that Birla Global University enhances its research focus to include a broader range of SDGs beyond SDG 8 and SDG 17, encouraging interdisciplinary and community-based research that addresses diverse sustainability challenges. Strengthening international collaborations, integrating SDG themes into the curriculum, and establishing dedicated research centers can further enhance the impact. Regular monitoring using tools like Elsevier SDG Mapping and greater visibility of SDG-aligned research outputs can support continuous progress towards global sustainability goals.