Leadership and Driving Sustainable Development Goals in Education (SDG4)

Abstract

Sustainable development in Thailand requires a balanced and mutually reinforcing interaction among its three key dimensions - ecological, social, and economic - in order to promote human well-being. Achieving long-term balance and sustainability is essential to reducing inequality, enhancing equity, and maintaining ecosystem stability. Within this context, Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) emphasizes ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all. Education serves as a fundamental basis for achieving other development goals, contributing to national sustainability, and providing a mechanism to elevate and develop all children and youth with equitable and high-quality outcomes. The realization of these objectives depends on the capacity of educational leaders who demonstrate systemic and sustainable leadership. Such leaders possess a broad vision that connects individuals, organizations, and society; employ systems thinking; consider the long-term role of organizations; and develop strategies that balance social, environmental, and financial performance. They leverage stakeholder participation and organizational potential to drive and enhance educational outcomes equitably, foster transformative change, and advance education toward achieving the SDGs sustainably. This can be achieved through innovation, fostering staff engagement, and enhancing the quality of education across all dimensions.