Introduction

In alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Lovely Professional University (LPU) continues to work diligently towards SDG 16, which emphasizes the promotion of peaceful and inclusive societies, providing access to justice for all, and building accountable, transparent, and inclusive institutions. During the academic year 2022-2023, LPU made substantial strides towards achieving these objectives by nurturing a culture of peace, justice, and integrity both within its campus and the surrounding community.

Academic Initiatives

Lovely Professional University (LPU) has implemented several academic initiatives aimed at educating students on the various aspects of SDG 16. The university offers a range of programmes and courses that are designed to raise awareness among students about social issues and emphasize the importance of these concerns to various stakeholders. These courses, aligned with SDG 16, are available at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. They promote an interdisciplinary approach and integrate sustainability principles across all study programs. Some of the courses addressing the needs of SDG 16 are Gender Equality and Women Empowerment, Human Rights and Media, International Relations, Crime and Society etc.

Research Initiatives

LPU is committed to prioritize its research work in achieving goals of sustainability. LPU faculty is committed in carry out its research work and publishing numerous research in various reputed journals on global issues as well as national issues. LPU organizes International Conference Philosophy of Peace, Justice & Equality (Under Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Chair) addressing the issues related to SDG 16. University undertakes many projects in collaboration with various national and international organizations. LPU collaborates with Erasmus+: Higher Education International Capacity Building and carried out project Cybersecurity for all CS4ALL whose key focus area is Cybersecurity Strategy in the Digital Decade and aims to enhance collective capabilities to respond to major cyberattacks.

Campus Engagement Activities

LPU acknowledges the significance of peaceful and inclusive societies, ensuring access to justice, and establishing effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels. This section highlights the initiatives and efforts undertaken by LPU to promote peace, justice, and strong institutions within its educational environment and, importantly, for the benefit of the local community.
These events took on various forms, including conferences, guest lectures, seminars, workshops, panel discussions, competitions, and awareness campaigns. Each aimed to engage students, faculty, and the broader local community in meaningful discussions and actions aligned with the targets of SDG 16. LPU organizes many events addressing the needs of SDG 16 like International Day of Non-violence, Moot Court Competition, guest lecture on Criminal Law Reforms, National Youth Parliament, joy and inner peace etc.

Visits of National and International Dignitaries at LPU

In 2023, LPU had the privilege of hosting several esteemed national and international dignitaries, further enhancing its global outlook and promoting meaningful collaborations. These visits provided students and faculty with valuable opportunities to interact with influential leaders and experts from diverse fields. Notable dignitaries who visited LPU in 2023 included:

Commitment to the Future

Looking forward, LPU reaffirms its commitment to promoting the principles of SDG 16 by continuing to promote peaceful and inclusive environments, promoting justice and fairness, and building strong, transparent institutions. The initiatives and outcomes achieved during the academic year 20222023 serve as a foundation for the university’s future endeavors.

• Organize workshops and seminars to promote peace and justice awareness among students and the local community.
• Substantially reduce corruption and bribery in all forms through awareness programs and transparent practices.
• Encourage the national rule of law to ensure that everyone has access to justice and legal support.
• Ensure that decisions are made in a timely, inclusive, participatory, and fair manner at all levels of governance.
• Develop effective, accountable, and transparent systems at all levels to enhance institutional integrity.
• Promote and enforce non-discriminatory laws and policies that support sustainable development for all community members.
• Ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms to empower citizens and promote transparency.
• Implement strategies to reduce all forms of violence within the campus and the wider community.
• Collaborate with various institutions and agencies to strengthen efforts in promoting peace, justice, and effective governance.
• Expand courses on conflict resolution, peace studies, and human rights education to build awareness among students.
• Establish a monitoring framework to assess the effectiveness of SDG 16 initiatives and adapt strategies based on feedback and outcomes.

Conclusion

LPU's work toward SDG 16 in 2022-23 has had a significant positive impact on the university and its surrounding community. By championing inclusivity, justice, and strong governance, LPU is contributing to a more peaceful and just society, thus aligning with both national and global objectives for sustainable development. Through continued dedication and innovation, the university will further enhance its role in promoting peace, justice, and strong institutions in the coming years.