Accelerating the Implementation of Agenda 2030: The Role of Educational Institutions and Capital Development Authority - A Case Study of Rajuk, Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors:   Government of Bangladesh, Hoque Mohammad 
Published: February 2025

The United Nations’ Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development outlines a comprehensive framework encompassing 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aimed at addressing global challenges and fostering sustainable development. As the world approaches the halfway mark towards the attainment of these goals, it is imperative to assess the progress made and identify strategies to accelerate their implementation. This research paper explores the intersection between SDGs and the role of the Capital Development Authority, focusing on the case study of the Capital Development Authority, locally called Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (RAJUK), in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

PURPOSE: The purpose of the research paper is to explore the intersection between the United Nations’ Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development, specifically Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG 11) and the role of the Capital Development Authority, using the case study of Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (RAJUK) in Dhaka, Bangladesh. It will assess the progress made towards SDG 11, which focuses on making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable, particularly in the context of housing and urban development in Bangladesh.

DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: This research combines theoretical frameworks and practical insights to explore the integration of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into the operations of Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (RAJUK) in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The approach involves: (1) Applying theoretical frameworks to examine how SDGs are embedded within RAJUK’s strategic and operational mandates; (2) Analysing potential synergies between urban development policies and sustainable objectives, focusing on SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities); (3) Conducting a comprehensive analysis of policy documents, case studies, and stakeholder perspectives to identify challenges and opportunities, and provide actionable recommendations for accelerating Agenda 2030 at the local level; (4) Investigating the role of educational institutions as catalysts for SDG implementation through engagement, interdisciplinary collaboration, and community capacity-building initiatives; (5) Utilising primary and secondary data sources to inform the findings; and (6) Emphasising the importance of strengthening institutional capacity, fostering multi-stakeholder partnerships, and mainstreaming sustainability principles within RAJUK.

FINDINGS: The research identifies key challenges and opportunities in integrating SDGs into the mandate of the Capital Development Authority, focusing on Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (RAJUK) in Dhaka, Bangladesh. It highlights potential synergies between urban development policies and sustainable development objectives, particularly in achieving SDG 11. The study underscores the urgency of accelerating the implementation of Agenda 2030 at the local level, with specific relevance to RAJUK. Additionally, it emphasises the pivotal role of educational institutions in driving SDG implementation through community engagement, interdisciplinary collaboration, and capacity-building initiatives. Strengthening institutional capacity, fostering multi-stakeholder partnerships, leveraging technology and innovation, and mainstreaming sustainability principles are identified as critical to enhancing the effectiveness of urban development strategies and housing initiatives aligned with SDGs.

ORIGINALITY/VALUE OF THE PAPER: The originality and value of the paper lie in its exploration of the intersection between SDGs and the Capital Development Authority, its emphasis on housing and SDG 11, its recognition of the role of educational institutions, its provision of actionable recommendations, and its insights derived from the case study of RAJUK in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The practical implications of this research paper lie in its ability to enhance students’ interest in entrepreneurship and internships in universities, and to guide policy-makers, practitioners and stakeholders in developing and implementing strategies that contribute to the realisation of Agenda 2030 goals, particularly in the context of urban development and housing in Bangladesh and beyond.
KEYWORDS: Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); Institutional Capacity; Urban Development Policies; Housing and SDG 11.

CITATION: Hoque, M.S. (2024): Accelerating the Implementation of Agenda 2030: The Role of Educational Institutions and Capital Development Authority - A Case Study of Rajuk, Dhaka, Bangladesh. In Ahmed, A. (Ed.): World Sustainable Development Outlook 2024, Vol. 20, pp.99–121. WASD: London, United Kingdom.