Global collaboration focused on sustainability as JGU launches WULF in Davos

OP Jindal Global University (JGU), launched the World University Leaders Forum (WULF) as its flagship initiative. Organized with J3D.AI and the House of Collaboration 2026, the platform was inaugurated with a panel discussion at the World Economic Forum (WEF), Davos.

WULF represents the natural culmination and institutionalisation of nearly two decades of sustained global engagement by JGU.

The theme of the panel discussion was 'Universities in Global Governance: Advancing the Sustainable Development Goals through Knowledge, Policy, and Partnership.'

Vice-Chancellor, JGU, Dr C Raj Kumar said at the panel discussion,

“Collaboration and Partnership for SDGs is essential. The need is for universities to collaborate with other sectors, including industry, government, and NGOs, to advance SDGs. The importance of making sustainability a priority from the beginning will define the future agenda of any institution. This discussion on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in universities highlights the critical role of higher education in preparing future leaders, conducting impactful research, and fostering global collaboration. There is a need for interdisciplinary and collaborative research, embedding sustainability in curricula, and the necessity of universities to be neutral and evidence-based in their contributions.”

The distinguished panellists included President, Pace University, New York, USA, Prof Marvin Krislov; Assistant Chancellor for Global Partnerships and Impact, Abu Dhabi University, UAE, Prof Sherine Farouk; Vice-Chancellor, JGU, Sonipat, Haryana, India (Chair & Moderator), Prof C Raj Kumar; Provost & Deputy Vice Chancellor, SOAS University of London, UK, Prof Joanna Newman ; Dean, Keio University Graduate School of Media Design, Tokyo, Japan, Prof Masa Inakage; and Executive Director, QS Quacquarelli Symonds, London, UK, Dr Ashwin Fernandes.

Prof Krislov shared the importance of interdisciplinary and collaborative research, mentioning the New York Climate Exchange and the need for global partnerships to execute SDGs effectively. While speaking about the importance of internships in preparing students for the job market, he highlighted that partnerships with industry and government would be beneficial.

Prof Farouk emphasised the flexibility required by private universities to advance sustainability. She advocated for dedicated funds for implementing sustainable standards in infrastructure, waste management, and community initiatives.

Prof Newman discussed the importance of university as model civic institutions and the need for evidence-based policy and knowledge exchange units. Stressing on their influential power on the government and industry, she spoke about the capacity of higher education universities in achieving SDGs, particularly in creating human capital and fostering international cooperation.

Prof Inakage showcased Keio University's Sustainable and Transformative Actions for Regenerative Society (STAR) initiative, which focuses on university-wide teaching and research in collaboration with the United Nations. He also discussed preparing students to ensure a sustainable and regenerative society.

Dr Fernandes provided insights into the role of interdisciplinary research in achieving SDGs and the need for universities to trace and report their sustainability metrics.

WULF has become a platform for enhancing collaboration and advancing SDGs through shared knowledge and strategic partnerships.

The dialogue at WULF also launched JGU's Sustainable Development Report 2025 which offers evidence-based insights into how universities are contributing to global governance, policy innovation, and sustainable development through research-driven engagement and cross-sector partnerships.

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