Open lecture “Social Justice and Sustainable Development”

22.04.2025

Larysa Chala, Associate Professor AI Department and Head of Benchmarking Department, gave an open lecture on Social Justice and Sustainable Development  for students of Computer Science Faculty. The event was part of implementing the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in the context of their integration into the educational process.

Larysa Chala emphasised that true sustainability cannot be achieved without ensuring equal opportunities, fair distribution of resources and inclusiveness. She emphasised the role of education in shaping consciousness aimed at overcoming inequality and respecting the rights of every person.

She paid special attention to the role of education in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, in particular:

SDG 4 (Quality Education): Inclusive education initiatives that ensure equal access to knowledge for all, regardless of social status or disability.

SDG 5 (Gender Equality): The importance of eliminating discrimination and ensuring equal opportunities for women and men.

SDG 10 (Reduce inequality): Approaches to overcoming structural inequalities through educational programmes and social projects.

Larysa Chala examined the dimensions of social justice, such as distributive, procedural and restorative justice, and their relationship to the SDGs. Students explored successful cases such as social entrepreneurship (e.g. the Ukrainian bakery Dobroho Khliba), inclusive education and the Fair Trade system. These examples illustrate how the principles of social justice are implemented in real life to achieve sustainable development.

The lecture encouraged students to think critically and participate in social initiatives. Larysa Chala emphasised the importance of impact monitoring and a systematic approach to projects that combine environmental, economic and social aspects.

The lecture included an interactive format where students discussed how they could contribute to implementing social justice principles in their future professional activities, particularly in the IT sector. This lecture was essential in spreading knowledge about sustainable development among students. Universities play a leading role in educating a new generation of leaders who can integrate sustainability principles into all spheres of life. Technical specialists, particularly our IT graduates, should contribute to sustainable change through innovative solutions aimed at social justice. The lecture inspired students to reflect on their contribution to building a just and sustainable future.

NURE continues actively implementing SDG principles into its curriculum, setting an example of social responsibility in education.

Open lecture “Social Justice and Sustainable Development”