Launch Report 2020 Table of Content

Introduction ...... 03 Objectives ...... 04 Participant Categories ...... 04 Agenda ...... 05 Executive Summary ...... 06 Introduction of SDSN Afghanistan and Welcome Speech ...... 07 E-Dialogue On A-SDGs ...... 08 Tools and Mechanism to Support the Government of Afghanistan in SDGs Integration and Financing (I) ...... 09 Tools and Mechanism to Support the Government of Afghanistan in SDGs Integration and Financing (II)...... 10 Cross Sectoral Partnerships and Role of SDSN Afghanistan as a Network of Solutions Providers...... 10 How CSOs and Research Think Tanks can take part in A- SDGs monitoring and reporting? ...... 11 Afghanistan’s Policy Instruments and A-SDGs (Integration, Alignments and Financing) ...... 12 How universities can support the government of Afghanistan in public policy formulation, policy implementation and program design? ...... 13 The Launch Event ...... 15 Ali Ahmad Yousefi, Chair and Chancellor, SDSN Afghanistan and Kateb University ...... 15 H.E. Dr. Abas Basir, Minister, Ministry of Higher Education ...... 16 Launch Report Mohammad Shafi Sharifi, Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Kabul University ...... 17 Maria Cortes Puch, Vice-President, UN SDSN ...... 18 2020 Prof. Jeffrey Sachs, President, UN SDSN ...... 19 Event Highlights ...... 20 SDSN Afghanistan Team ...... 21 United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (UN SDSN) ...... 22 Afghanistan Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN Afghanistan) .. 23 OBJECTIVES The event aims to achieve the following objectives:

- To provide an overall and recent update on the work of SDSN Afghanistan - To discuss the roles of Afghan ministries, international community, CSOs, research thinks tanks and universities in achieving the SDGs and A-SDGs in Afghanistan INTRODUCTION - To explore potential areas of collaboration, cooperation On 17 December 2020, Afghanistan Sustainable and joint-initiatives among different SDG relevant Development Solutions Network (SDSN Afghanistan) stakeholders in Afghanistan and beyond in partnership with its host institution, Kateb University - To highlight the priorities and needs of different sectors in organized a half-day virtual event to officially launch relevance to achieving the SDGs and A-SDGs in Afghanistan the network. The official launch event was held with participants from different Afghan government ministries, international and national universities, private sector, non-for profit organizations, research institutions and civil society organizations. The event also hosted all members of SDSN Afghanistan’s leadership council members and representatives from United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (UN SDSN). Public Sector Civil Society The event brought together different international and (Government) Organizations national participants from different sectors to update them on objectives, programs, current and future initiatives of SDSN Afghanistan as well as illustrating roles, partnerships and potential cooperation opportunities among relevant stakeholders of SDGs at national, regional and global scale. Private PARTICIPANT Practitioners Sectors and Experts This report provides an overview of the key topics discussed during the “E-dialogue on SDGs” panel and by the keynote CATEGORIES speakers and guest speakers at the virtual launch event of SDSN Afghanistan. Academia University (Universities and Higher Education Students and Institutions) Scholars

SDSN Afghanistan Launch Report 3 SDSN Afghanistan Launch Report 4 The event wasAGENDA held in Kabul time, UTC/GMT + 4:30 hours. 1:00 p.m. Virtual Webinar Room Open EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The launch event was virtually commenced by Mr. Mohammad Wali Farhat, 1:15 – 1:30 p.m. Welcome and Introduction of SDSN Afghanistan: Network of Manager of SDSN Afghanistan who welcomed the speakers Wali Farhat, Network Manager of SDSN Afghanistan and participants in joining the Official Launch Event of SDSN Afghanistan and expressed his sincere appreciation and gratitude to colleagues at Kateb “E-Dialogue on A-SDGs” Session (1:30 – 2:30 p.m.) University, UN SDSN and SDSN Afghanistan who worked hard to make 1:30 – 1:40 p.m. Tools and Mechanism to Support the Government of Afghanistan in SDGs today’s event happen with success. The event was structured in two sections - an “E-dialogue on A-SDGs” session Integration and Financing, Ms. Naheed Sarabi, Policy Advisor, UNDP and the official launch. In the panel, experts from different sectors deliver Afghanistan, and Dr. Keith Shawe, SDG Integration Advisor, UNDP Afghanistan talks on the role of each sector in achieving the SDGs in Afghanistan. The 1:40 – 2:00 p.m. Cross Sectoral Partnerships and Role of SDSN Afghanistan as a Network of panel speakers were Ms. Naheed Sarabi, Policy Advisor at UNDP Afghanistan, Solutions Providers, Mr. Zia Shefaie, Co-Chair, SDSN Afghanistan, and Vice- Dr. Keith Shawe, SDG Integration Advisor at UNDP Afghanistan, Mr. Zia Chancellor for Admin and Finance, Kateb University Shefaie, Co-Chair of SDSN Afghanistan and Vice-Chancellor for Admin 2:00 – 2:10 p.m. How CSOs and Research Think Tanks can take part in A- SDGs monitoring and and Finance at Kateb University, Dr. Nishank Motwani, Deputy Director reporting, Dr. Nishank Motwani, Deputy Director, Afghanistan Research and at Afghanistan Research and Evaluation Unit (AREU), Mr. Naser Sidiqee, Evaluation Unit (AREU) Deputy Minister for Policy of Ministry of Finance, and Mr. Mirwais Nahzat, 2:10 – 2:20 p.m. Afghanistan’s Policy Instruments and A-SDGs (Integration, Alignments and Chief Operating Officer of Kardan University. The moderator for all sessions Financing), Mr. Naser Sidiqee, Deputy Minister of Finance for Policy, Ministry was Mr. Abdullah Alemi, Program Analyst of SDSN Afghanistan, and the co- moderator was Ms. Dorothea Struber, Network Manager of some of the of Finance Regional and National Networks of UN SDSN. 2:20 – 2:30 p.m. How universities can support the government of Afghanistan in public policy The launch event was then convened by opening remarks of Mr. Ali Ahmad formulation, policy implementation and program design, Mr. Mirwais Nahzat, Yousefi, Chair of SDSN Afghanistan and Chancellor of Kateb University as Chief Operating Officer, Kardan University well as speeches of Prof. Jeffrey Sachs, President of UN SDSN as keynote Q&A Session (2:20 – 2:30 p.m.) speaker, H.E. Abas Basir, Minister of Higher Education as chief guest speaker, Prof. Mohammad Shafi Sharifi, Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs of Break (2:30 – 2:40 p.m.) Kabul University and Ms. María Cortés Puch as guest speakers. All speakers welcomed the launch of SDSN Afghanistan and remarked the network as an Official Launch Session opportunity to achieving the Agenda of 2030 and Sustainable Development Goals in Afghanistan. 2:45 – 3:00 p.m. Opening Remark: Mr. Ali Ahmad Yousefi, Chair, SDSN Afghanistan, and Chancellor, Kateb University Speech of Guest Speakers (2:50 – 3:35 p.m.)

3:00 – 3:15 p.m. H.E. Dr. Abbas Basir, Minister of Higher Education

3:15 – 3:30 p.m. Prof. Shafi Sharifi, Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Kabul University

3:30 – 3:45 p.m. Ms. Maria Cortes-Puch, Vice President, UN SDSN

Key Note Speaker

3:45 – 3:55 p.m. Prof. Jeffrey Sachs, President of UNSDN

3:55 – 4:00 p.m. Closing session E-DIALOGUE ON A-SDGS The panel discussion of “E-dialogues on SDGs” was attended by five expert panel speakers from different sectors who are as follows: INTRODUCTION OF SDSN AFGHANISTAN AND

WELCOME SPEECH Ms. Naheed Sarabi talked upon three support dimensions of UNDP Afghanistan to the government of Afghanistan to achieving the A-SDGs. Mr. Farhat began with giving a brief introduction of the SDSN Afghanistan. Approved in March 2020, SDSN Afghanistan aims to act as a platform for academia, businesses, government and civil society organizations to promote evidence-based solutions and to help achieve the SDGs in the country. At the moment, SDSN Afghanistan works on three programs which are Awareness and Dr. Keith Shawe shed light on the essential role of SDG Engagement, Teach Afghanistan and Providing Solutions for A-SDGs. integration for the progress and development of Afghanistan. To this end, SDSN Afghanistan will mobilize resources and engage solution providers by1 ) Engaging Afghans in dialogues on peace, 2) WALI FARHAT, Helping and supporting collaboration for sustainable policies and Network Manager, programs, 3) Facilitating research and fostering evidence-based SDSN Afghanistan solution mechanisms to influence decision-making, 4) Educating the current and future SDG implementers, 5) Advocating for and Mr. Zia Shefaie gave a speech on the urgent need for cross- providing technical support to policy change, 6) Helping to attract sector partnership and its benefits for the achievement of and align resources towards achievement of A-SDGs, and 6) Helping SDGs in Afghanistan to develop proper reporting mechanisms. Mr. Farhat mentioned that over the past 9 months, we have built strategic partnerships with renowned Afghan development agencies through SDSN Afghanistan, received +35 membership application and have nine members in our network. On7 th October 2020, the network secretariat successfully organized the 1st SDSN Afghanistan’s Leadership Council meeting with the participation Dr. Nishank Motwani illustrated on the position of CSOs and of representatives from UNDP Afghanistan, Kateb University, Research Institutions in A-SDGs monitoring and reporting. Afghanistan Research and Evaluation Unit (AREU), Kabul University, Kardan University, Afghanistan National Education Coalition (ANEC), Ministry of Economy, ACBAR, Bahar Sarab Group of Companies, ICC-Afghanistan and Respected Mr. Qasemi, the former parliament member of Afghanistan. Additionally, SDSN Afghanistan joined other UN SDSN’s networks in organizing -24hour “Happiness and Mr. Naser Sidiqee gave a brief overview on the past, current Sustainability” webinar by holding and hosting a panel discussion and future work of Afghan government on and its policy on the topic of “Afghanistan Peace Process: Role of Women – instrument of A-SDGs. Opportunities and Challenges”. Also, SDSN Afghanistan’s website is now available online in both English and Dari languages and is active on social media channels (Facebook and Twitter).

Mr. Mirwais Nahzat addressed the role that universities can play in formulating, implementing and evaluating policies in regard to A-SDGs in Afghanistan.

SDSN Afghanistan Launch Report 7 SDSN Afghanistan Launch Report 8 TOOLS AND MECHANISM TO SUPPORT THE TOOLS AND MECHANISM TO SUPPORT THE GOVERNMENT OF AFGHANISTAN IN SDGS GOVERNMENT OF AFGHANISTAN IN SDGS INTEGRATION AND FINANCING (II) INTEGRATION AND FINANCING (I) To Dr. Shaw, SDG integration is a way of thinking and processing According to Ms. Sarabi, there are a lot of challenges in Afghanistan about the SDGs that helps us design interventions that bring forth like poverty is rising at alarming rate, and unfortunately, the development impact on everyone on a broader level. The purpose of Afghanistan Human Development Report (2019) by UNDP positions SDG integration is to find equilibrium between human development the country in lower level of human development and 169 out of and planetary boundaries. As a set of 17 goals, the SDGs cannot be 189 countries in the world. However, the development that has achieved one by one, rather all or some of the SDGs can only be happened over the past 20 years cannot be undermined thoroughly. achieved together considering how they work together, interact and Principally, as development experts, our role is to reexamine new influence one another. However, there is advantage in thinking and methods of development and engagement especially in Afghanistan reflecting on how the SDGs can work together. and around the globe. As a development practitioner working at The first advantage is in helping the government to recognize the best UNDP Afghanistan, the role of UNDP Afghanistan as an agency for DR. KEITH SHAW, way towards its goal of “greater self-reliance”. Subsequently, another MS. NAHEED SARABI, SDG Integration Advisor, Policy Advisor, sustainable development goals (SDGs) and a support platform is to UNDP Afghanistan advantage of SDG integration is its necessity to think about how to UNDP Afghanistan advise and instruct Afghan government and all relevant development direct the work of the SDGs in the best possible manner in terms of practitioners through various policy choices on how to achieve the cost effectiveness and efficiency to response and deliver the needs. SDGs and the agenda of 2030 in Afghanistan. Therefore, UNDP has The third advantage is to reflect upon balancing and aligning the planned to support the government of Afghanistan through three country’s short-term demands with longer term sustainability goals areas. while taking into account the challenges of achieving the SDGs in The first area of support is “Data and Analytics”. UNDP Afghanistan Afghanistan. For the above reasons, SDG integration can assist with will provide support for the government and different entities on making wiser decisions about the balance lies as well as making the SDG related data collection and how to present and produce highly best possible use of available funds. data-driven analytics. In collaboration with the Ministry of Economy These days, people mostly work on single A-SDG with limited and the Ministry of Finance, UNDP Afghanistan is going to develop consideration of the existing relation and interaction between the a multi-sectoral and multi-dimensional dashboard to show how SDGs and A-SDGs like energy, food, water, climate change and etc. initiatives and development goals relevant to Afghanistan National Primarily, the aim should be on finding and achieving the optimum Peace and Development Framework (ANDPF), its relevant National balance between improved economy, social inclusion and planetary Priority Programs (NPPs), and Afghanistan Sustainable Development sustainability to move from focusing and working on single SDGs Goals (A-SDGs) are achieved, and how to gather required data and and A-SDGs to a combination of related and interrelated SDGs and provide analysis. A-SDGs. The second area of support is “Policy Integration”. Through this area, UNDP Afghanistan is supporting the government with A-SDGs integration in the ANPDF, NPPs and different development CROSS SECTORAL PARTNERSHIPS AND ROLE OF policy and planning procedures as well as the funding and costing SDSN AFGHANISTAN AS A NETWORK OF SOLUTIONS process of these policies. Hence, UNDP Afghanistan has worked on developing Macroeconomic Framework Models with the Ministry PROVIDERS of Finance and the Ministry of Economy to provide the government From Mr. Shefaie point of view, the government, academia, think with observing policy options and trade-offs. This model will help tanks, development organizations like UNDP and all stakeholders of the government to develop SDG relevant policies that are aligned the SDGs have the interest to achieve the SDGs in Afghanistan but with its development priorities and objectives. the problems it that their work is not directed towards this interest The third area of support is “SDG financing”. It is known that foreign with coordinated and coherent management and mechanisms. For aids and Official Development Assistance (ODA) are not permanent example, three months ago, National Environment Protection Agency and sustainable sources to finance developmental objectives. of Afghanistan (NEPA) announced that people are not allowed to use Therefore, UNDP Afghanistan plans to assist the government in coal for heating purposes during the cold months. On the other hand, brainstorming and finding better and innovative financing mechanisms the poverty is rising every day which makes people to buy cheaper for funding medium to long-term development objectives of the MR. ZIA SHEFAIE, energy sources such as coal and wood. Without considering poverty country. One of the potential areas that we support the government Co-Chair, SDSN rate and per capita income, this shows that the policy making is not to risk guarantees’ mechanisms is to use Sukuk (Islamic financing), Afghanistan, and Vice coherent even at the top level, and there is a lack of coordination crowdfunding, and other mechanisms that gradually and sustainably Chancellor for Admin and among different sectors. replace the foreign aid in Afghanistan. Finance, Kateb University The challenge of working in silos has put organizations and individuals’ SDSN Afghanistan Launch Report 9 SDSN Afghanistan Launch Report 10 work to be insufficiently ineffective but now, people from all walks of life can come together to The fourth point is to build and systemize partnerships and cooperation with the government work through the platform of SDSN Afghanistan to contribute to the achievement of the SDGs and by signing MoUs rather than project based partnerships. Also, to harness the potential of private adding value to the country. SDSN Afghanistan established with the intention to act as a platform industry and local communities, it is essential to reach out to provinces in other part of Afghanistan where individuals from diverse organizations and backgrounds gather under one roof to discuss because it is not affordable to lose people in other provinces than Kabul, Herat, Mazar and etc. problems and propose solutions. Starting from the Leadership Council (LC) of SDSN Afghanistan, The fifth point is to reinforce connections with higher education institutions in the country and we have experts from academia, UNDP, different ministries, think tank organizations, research in the region near Afghanistan. Of course, it is important to have connections with universities organizations. LC members of SDSN Afghanistan come together on a regular basis to discuss around the world but there’s so much potential in collaborating and having relationships with different SDG related issues. With their expertise, they help our partners and members with universities both within the country but also in the region due to a better understanding of the technical support such as research opportunities, capacity building programs, and development context. frameworks. Also, they provide political and advocacy support to the SDSN Afghanistan and its The final point is to publish research especially both in Dari and Pashto languages. Also, the partners to lobby with the government, discuss the importance of the SDGs and A-SDGs, and reports and research findings need to be accessible by everyone because they should be available allocate and mobilize funds and budget for achieving the SDGs and A-SDGs in Afghanistan. and readable to all citizens of Afghanistan to be able to engage with and advocate them, and also to be able to present them to a policy audience. HOW CSOS AND RESEARCH THINK TANKS CAN TAKE PART IN A- SDGS MONITORING AFGHANISTAN’S POLICY INSTRUMENTS AND AND REPORTING? A-SDGS (INTEGRATION, ALIGNMENTS AND Dr. Motwani called safeguarding and bettering SDGs in Afghanistan FINANCING) is a huge challenge because of the worsening political security, economic environment, rising poverty and movement of people Since its adoption in2015 , the government of Afghanistan developed because of displacement. However, because of political security different mechanisms and policy instruments to make sure that the and ideological reasons, some SDGs such as gender equality, SDGs are contextualized and integrated into the government’s policies education and marginalized groups’ protection are in greater risks and strategies. Primarily, the ministry of economy was appointed to than others in Afghanistan. Also, there are other challenges such as devote an entire department to the SDGs, obliged to make sure that limited collaboration and evidence-based research. Hence, one of the SDGs are integrated into the existing policy instruments, and the the solutions in safeguarding and improving situation of the SDGs SDGs are broken down further into actionable targets and goals to is evidence-based research and directing it towards relevant policy be then monitored on an annual basis. After the introduction of the DR. NISHANK circles to inform policy and practice. Evidence-based research is crucial SDGs in 2015, the government of Afghanistan had already developed MOTWANI, to addressing complicated multi-dimensional challenges and to tackle its five-year development strategy called Afghanistan national peace Deputy Director, MR. NASER SIDIQEE, and development framework (ANPDF). At that time, the ministry of Afghanistan Research against misinformation and purposeful disinformation that has made Deputy Minister of finance and ministry of economy was working together to align the and Evaluation Unit hard for policy measures to gain traction. Finance for Policy, (AREU) To better position research in the service of safeguarding and Ministry of Finance SDGs to the context of Afghanistan which later developed Afghanistan advancing the SDGs, Afghanistan needs a strong foundation and a Sustainable Development Goals (A-SDGs) with the 10 NPPs. Right professional culture of evidence-based research. To this end, the role after2018 Geneva conference till taking preparation for2020 Geneva of CSOs and think tanks is to collaborate, coordinate and integrate the conference, the Ministry of Finance started working together with their advancements of SDGs in their respective areas of work. We hope that international partners and64 government agencies to develop the next through SDSN Afghanistan network all the SDG relevant stakeholders ANPDF which is now called ANPDF2-. This peace and development be able to work on evidence-based research in a more organized way. framework briefs the views, ambitions and plans of the government of Secondly, CSOs and think tanks should invest in the area of capacity Afghanistan to achieve self-reliance, to reduce and to finally eliminate development because it will help them to do advocacy and hold on poverty, to enable environmental preservation, to also facilitate the to the challenges that can help Afghans to be vocal about issues, role of private sector and to make sure that national resources are used and the other reason is the need to find contextually relevant and in a sustainable manner for the economic development of Afghanistan. intelligent local solutions to local problems that can be achieved with Following the development of the ANPDF2-, the government of the assistance of people in Afghanistan. Afghanistan has planned to further integrate and break down A-SDGs The third point is that CSOs and think tanks also need to engage on and revise the current NPPs. In the ANPDF2-, the government a wide level. Engagement should not be limited only to the time of suggested the revision of the existing 10 NPPs and development of publication but it should be the starting point. It should be a starting five new NPPs that directly corresponds to the needs and priorities of point for engagement with practitioners, universities as well as private the country over the next four years. For this purpose, the Ministry of sector as a way to examine ideas through regular trainings to prevent Finance is going to work and collaborate closely with its international from proposing contextually disconnected solutions. partners especially the UNDP Afghanistan and relevant government

SDSN Afghanistan Launch Report 11 SDSN Afghanistan Launch Report 12 ministries to make sure that SDGs and A-SDGs are fully integrated and aligned with government The second challenge relates to insufficient and symbolic role of academic institutions. In priorities, interests and needs. example, the current consultation mechanism, in particular the working groups and executive For the next four years, it’s one of the government’s priorities and policies to ensure that committees are highly own by the officials. They lack representation from other sectorsin different plans, policies and strategies of its international partners are also aligned. Speaking of particular academic institutions. It is true that universities are hub for innovation, youth the knowledge and expertise at the global level, by focusing and emphasizing on the involvement engagement, advocacy and have a huge role in forming sustainability leaders and champions of the communities’ down to the citizen level, the government of Afghanistan also makes sure who has remained underutilized and resourced across both public and private higher institutions. that the policy development, decision making and policy implementation are fully done with the On the other hand, Afghanistan’s research output, particularly related to the SDGs remains engagement of the citizens of Afghanistan. The government has really tries to reach out to the extremely limited in comparison with the region. Afghanistan’s higher education institutions, citizens through engaging them in policy formulation, implementation and monitoring. the national and international partners have an opportunity to increase Afghanistan’s research Another component of our strategy is the implementation and financing parts of development output, in particular the area of achieving the SDGs. plans. the government of Afghanistan has suggested in the ANPDF2- to find alternative for The final challenge is about the current effectiveness of the method of achieving SDGsin the source of financing for development. Mainly, the government of Afghanistan depends up Afghanistan. There are opportunities around public and private partnerships that has been to 70 percent and more on foreign aid for its operation and functions which a large share of missed a lot. Higher education institutions have a number of initiatives and programs which are the grants is provided by its international partners. For this reason, Mr. Sidiqee stated that to not closely connected with international partners and the public (government) sector. While involve our international partners, they should consider integrating SDGs in their strategies and there are efforts, initiatives and awareness raising programs under process, there is a lack of a policies for Afghanistan. By diversifying relations with international partners, the government of systematic, sustainable and effective engagement where public and private sectors could work Afghanistan has suggested to look for more sustainable source of financing directly corresponding together to promote the agenda of development. to many SDGs that help Afghanistan to gradually move towards self-reliance. It also ensures that Lastly, Mr. Nahzat pointed out five key recommendations to achieving the SDGs in Afghanistan. Afghanistan is connected with the global financial mechanisms and different available financial My first recommendation is the establishment of a national council of both public and private instruments to reduce its dependence on grants and mobilize alternative sources of financing universities to contribute achieving the A-SDGs which is necessary, relevant and significant to for development interventions and initiatives in Afghanistan. reinforce and maximize the role of higher education institutions in particular universities. To this So what the government of Afghanistan through ministry of finance is trying to establish is regard, SDSN Afghanistan is a promising model to build harmony and utilize the vast resources a coherent, consistent and fully aligned platform, and strengthening mechanisms between and potential that exist across universities in Afghanistan. different policy instruments, monitoring and systems. In the first step, the ministry has made My second recommendation is the need investment in developing a SDG-focused research sure that there is close SDG alignment at the policy level. At the moment, the ministry is in agenda. It can strengthen Afghanistan’s SDG research output, best practices and recreate the implementation phase and their work will be aimed at ensuring that the implementation models for other conflict affected territories where they could learn from the experiences of is consistent and coherent with the intention to help Afghanistan government as well as their Afghanistan towards their national development agenda international partners to achieve a shared objective and goal by the end of the transformation Thirdly, my recommendation is that universities can facilitate training skills development and decade 2030. consulting services to the government entities with a focus on policy development, strategic HOW UNIVERSITIES CAN SUPPORT THE implementation and governance reform initiatives. While institutions like Kardan University, Kateb University and the SDSN Afghanistan members, as a whole, have some role in policy GOVERNMENT OF AFGHANISTAN IN PUBLIC implementation. Together, they can work as knowledge partners for the development and implementation of those policies, and an incubation hub to replicate SDG best practices. POLICY FORMULATION, POLICY IMPLEMENTATION My fourth recommendation is youth engagement initiatives such as student ambassadors for AND PROGRAM DESIGN? SDGs, SDG relevant innovation and incubation programs which are very essential in universities. My final recommendation is, since the A-SDGs is a national commitment and needier than before, Mr. Nahzat began his speech by saying that the relevant ministry, the that universities should work in collaboration with the ministries and international partners to national and international partners’ work on a systematic commitment develop policies, programs and initiatives. to the 2030 agenda, the nationalization of the SDGs as well as the As a final note and thought, we believe that SDSN Afghanistan provides that gleam of hope. prioritization of the SDGs in its alignment is noteworthy and significant. It indicates the beginning of a sustainable and continuous cooperation where universities, Their efforts showcase Afghanistan’s commitment and partnership national and international partners can work together to enable innovation, prosperity and in addressing the SDGs globally. Looking at the effectiveness and global partnership for Afghanistan and beyond. relevance of the current structures and mechanisms for achieving the SDGs, there are some challenges that needs to be taken into consideration. The first challenge is a lack of precision about the effectiveness of the MR. MIRWAIS current structures, mechanisms, and strategies. For example, the office NAHZAT, of CEO in Afghanistan is no longer functioning and the last update Chief Operation Officer, Kardan University of Ministry of Economy’s website was from January of 2020. In my perspective, there is a need for further public engagement, awareness raising and civic engagement when it is about promoting the SDGs to the national. SDSN Afghanistan Launch Report 13 SDSN Afghanistan Launch Report 14 THE LAUNCH EVENT SPEAKER CHIEF GUEST SPEAKER

Mr. Ali Ahmad Yousefi delivered the opening remarks by expressing H.E. Dr. Abasir started his speech by mentioning that 2015 is his appreciation and gratitude that Afghanistan chapter of SDSN remarked by the Paris Agreement on Climate Change and the Agenda is officially launched, and thanked all LC members, colleagues and partners in making the launch event happen which was not possible 2030 for sustainable development, a plan of action for people, without their contribution. planet and prosperity that seeks to strengthen universal peace and Since March 2020, our colleagues at SDSN Afghanistan were larger freedom. Everyone has recognized that eradicating poverty continuously working on some programs, projects, and events such in all way possible including extreme poverty is the greatest global as holding the first-ever SDSN Afghanistan LC meeting, reaching challenge and essential requirement for sustainable development. out to potential members and membership engagement, working on There are different ways to address these challenges but through enhancing partnership with national and international stakeholders, higher education lens, we are going to address this very important and developing programs for the year 2021. Specifically, SDSN ALI AHMAD YOUSEFI, Afghanistan has three main priorities and objectives which are 1) H.E. DR. ABAS BASIR, issue through different ways. Chair and Chancellor, Awareness and Engagement, 2) Teach Afghanistan, and 3) Solutions Minister, Ministry of The important issue is to first understand the role of higher education SDSN Afghanistan and for Sustainable Development. Through “Awareness and Engagement” Higher Education in addressing the SDGs in Afghanistan. In the context of Afghanistan, Kateb University objective, the network aims to raise awareness across institutions, SDG4 addresses the issue of “quality education” through ministry of public and private sectors, and community to direct sector and higher education and ministry of education. Therefore, the role of cross-sectoral dialogues, awareness programs and nationwide ministry of higher education would be through two important ways campaigns on the SDGs and their achievement in the country. Next, “Teach Afghanistan” objective has a holistic approach in analyzing which are education, and research and development. and improving access to quality education in Afghanistan, and Knowingly, education is a cross-cutting thematic issue which is why providing education on SDGs across higher education institutions the Ministry of Higher Education is currently working to update and in particular universities. Lastly, providing solutions for the A-SDGs” integrate the SDGs into the curriculums. This is a crucial step that the will be addressed through A-SDGs data management, technological Ministry of Higher Education has taken because without integrating and tool support for A-SDGs, monitoring, reporting and influencing and mainstreaming SDGs into the curriculum, it would be difficult to decision-making at policy and program levels. contribute to the achievement of the SDGs in Afghanistan. As mentioned in the UNDP Human Development Report, Afghanistan’s Human Development Index (HDI) value for 2019 is The second way is through research and investment in research 0.511 which situates Afghanistan in lower rank of development. The activities to address different aspects of the SDGs. It is vital to have development index signifies development in the areas of healthy national policies on sustainable development, and different sectors lifestyle, access to knowledge, awareness and an appropriate are obliged to have their own specific policies in addressing SDG standard of living. This report clearly showcases the situation relevant issues but scientific based research is very important to of Afghanistan and its citizen. Another example is the worrying develop these policies. pollution that exacerbates in Kabul each winter. The use of non- renewable energy such as coal creates damaging consequences To invest on education and research activities, financial and both to the environment and the people. For this reason, there is a technological support is crucial to address SDGs relevant activities need to inform the people about renewable energy and to advocate and programs. To same end, capacity building is also very important for this type of energies in the country. and it requires support from international community to invest on In addition, the proposed idea of teaching primary education at capacity development, technological and financial support. Finally, mosques has caused many controversies among various groups partnership is necessary among private sector and public partnership of people in the country, however, we need to think and analyze to address resource mobilization and joint-initiatives. whether this idea fits into the various existing developmental policies, strategies and documents of Afghanistan. We need to As a final note, SDSN Afghanistan is an opportunity for all of us to critically think and evaluate issues from multi perspectives in order work and encourage our partners to jointly work on SDG relevant to reach a better conclusion for the development of the country. issues. In addition, I would like to thank Kateb university and its To this regard, SDSN Afghanistan, as a network of solutions provider international partners for launching this network for us and for all brings together the government, private sector, academia, research Afghan people to focus the work on SDGs. In the end, the Ministry centers and civil society organization to be critical and analytical of Higher Education and Kateb University together will work to about the challenges and problems of Afghanistan because coordinate all SDG relevant issues. development and especially the achievement of SDGs cannot be possible without engagement, cooperation and partnership among different stakeholders.

SDSN Afghanistan Launch Report 15 SDSN Afghanistan Launch Report 16 SPEAKER SPEAKER From Prof. Sharifi perspective, the role of higher education institutions Ms. Puch began with giving a brief a background on how SDSN and universities is essential to achieving the all 16 adopted A-SDGs Afghanistan embark on their journey. She mentioned that started in because of their important role in meeting the challenges of sustainable August of 2019, Kateb University decided to host a conference in development through education and research. Universities educate and Afghanistan about the role of universities in implementing the SDGs. equipe the new generation with the knowledge, skills and attitude; create In her view, the conference was phenomenal which Kateb University study programs, organize extracurricular activities and understanding to was able to gather universities, the private sector, the government address sustainable challenges and the opportunities perform research and UN agencies. Later, Kateb University was accepted as a member that advances sustainability development agenda and as considered a of SDSN and soon after, the university decided to mobilize and key component of long-term economic growth. To this regard, the role of engage other universities in achieving and implementing the SDGs in universities in achieving A-SDGs can be directed and led through several Afghanistan. In six months, SDSN Afghanistan was formally approved MOHAMMAD SHAFI ways. MARIA CORTES PUCH, by UN SDSN. In April 2020, it contributes to the organization of the SHARIFI, To begin with, a association of universities is required to conduct Vice-President, UN SDSN -24hour “Sustainability and Happiness” webinar. This was a great effort Vice-Chancellor for projects that enable students to shape sustainability competencies and of members and networks around the world to host a virtual webinar. Academic Affairs, Kabul equip them with appropriate knowledge and skills to shape a system SDSN Afghanistan webinar was organized specifically on the Afghan University of sustainability related values and sustainability competencies that peace process and focusing on the role of women, the opportunities include systematic thinking, interdisciplinary work, anticipatory thinking, and challenges. justice responsibility and ethics, critical thinking and analytical work, All of these astonishing body of work would not have been possible interpersonal relationships and collaboration, empathy and change of without the spectacular leadership of Prof. Zia Shefaie as well as Mr. perspective, communication use of media, strategic thinking, personal Ali Ahmad Yousefi, SDSN Afghanistan’s chairs and the effort of our engagement, assessment and evaluation, intolerance for ambiguity and colleague and the manager of SDSN Afghanistan network, Mr. Wali uncertainty. Universities can utilize their expertise, capabilities and Farhat who has been outstanding in his work. At the moment, the leadership to influence other stakeholders to adopt more sustainable network is piloting a project to evaluate how universities are helping policies and practices to achieve the agenda 2030 for sustainable achieve the SDGs and planning to organize the first Afghan Solutions development. Forum. Finally, Ms. Puch stated that at the UN SDSN, we are really In Afghanistan, neither the majority of students nor their faculty members inspired by the work of SDSN Afghanistan and the work of many other are aware of the A-SDGs. Our responsibility is to increase awareness not networks of UN SDSN around the world. only among students and faculty members but also among the internal stakeholders, specifically Afghan citizens. Additionally, the universities have to utilize their expertise to conduct qualitative and quantitative research on the SDGs. Due to their nature, public universities require fund and modern technology for research projects to contribute to achieving the SDGs. Moreover, evaluation, monitoring and reporting is essential to universities’ research contribution to the SDGs, its targets and indicators. Prof. Sharifi mentioned that SDSN should take this type of collaboration and joint-initiatives into consideration. Last butnot the least, strong collaboration is required. There is a need to encourage internal and external collaboration and facilities, joint-research activities and partnerships to advance the A-SDGs. Kabul University has made significant progress over the past five years. The enrollment of new students increased almost 25 percent, girls’ enrollment increased from 31 percent to 46 percent. The teacher student ratio improved from 42 to 36. In terms of programs, Kabul University introduced seven new programs in Bachelor, five graduate programs and six graduate programs are in process of development. Currently, KU offers 71 undergraduate programs, 21 master degree programs and 2 PhD programs. In addition, KU builds the capacity of faculty members through the Professional development center and the capacity of students through student skill development center, libraries and information resource centers in which they acquire diverse skills that they may need during their teaching years and upon graduation. KU attempts to shape sustainable development oriented competencies since early 2016 through formal sustainable development education and non-formal activities to tackle social and environmental challenges. SDSN Afghanistan Launch Report 17 SDSN Afghanistan Launch Report 18 EVENT HIGHLIGHTS KEY NOTE SPEAKER As the keynote speaker, Prof. Jeffrey Sachs express his congratulatory remark about the official launch event of SDSN Afghanistan. He then mentioned that the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) invite all countries to address problems of poverty, hunger, education, health care, water and sanitation, job creation, infrastructure, renewable energy. For a country like Afghanistan, these are all big challenge but there are also other places in the world that have dealt with more serious problems and difficulties. His core belief is for a multilateral peaceful system, and for this reason, he has served for United Nations trying to help put development, human rights and peace at the center of development strategy for more PROF. JEFFREY SACHS, than 20 years. However, looking at Afghanistan, this country’s problems President, UN SDSN are everywhere; their problem of basic infrastructure, basic literacy, health care, using the new digital technologies and opportunities for electrification, energy and so on. From his point of view, economic development can be achieved by shifting investment in particular investment in the areas of children, their health, nutrition, education and infrastructure including electrification and digital access. According to data, only around 1 out of 7 people in Afghanistan have access to internet and mobile connectivity. He further suggested that for a country like Afghanistan which is geographically complex and rural, people need connections, digital connectivity and this is a huge plus because when there is digital connectivity, every system and services can be online. This is one area where investment is really timely and important. Another area to think about is investment strategies in Afghanistan. Investment in the area of human development especially health, education, nutrition and the investments in the infrastructure especially energy and renewable energy such as wind, solar and hydropower; clean and green energy, connectivity and transport should be considered greatly. All of these areas are very sophisticated in the country because Afghanistan is so diverse in terms of geography, neighborhood, land lock and so forth. Afghanistan has much potential for development as long as there is peace and decent governance. Ideally, SDSN Afghanistan can come up with some good strategies for investment that could be used by government, UN and by the communities to move towards the development of Afghanistan. Therefore, everyone’s role is to think clearly, longer term and about the good of country and the world as rational and analytical way as possible. There is a need to work on problem solving and practical ideas specific to health care, education, renewable energy, digital, services, upgrading agriculture, connections with regional cooperation like China and Pakistan and China-Pakistan economic quarter. UN SDSN would like to help organizations and individuals that put forward ideas and initiatives as the network is part of a global network of problem solvers and solution providers.

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ALI AHMAD YOUSEFI ZIA SHEFAIE M. WALI FARHAT ABDULLAH ALEMI, Chair Co-Chair Network Manager Program Analyst and and Host Moderator

MARYAM KHADEMI SHEGOFA AHMADI NOORULLAH MOSTAFA MONJI Communication and Communication BAREKZAI Videographer Content Officer Officer Media Officer

PARWEZ MANZOOR SHALIHY HASSAN YOUSUFI MOHAMMADI Creative Manager IT Officer Photographer AFGHANISTAN UNITED NATIONS SUSTAINABLE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT SOLUTIONS DEVELOPMENT SOLUTIONS NETWORK (SDSN NETWORK (UN SDSN) AFGHANISTAN)

The Global or UN SDSN mobilizes scientific and technical expertise SDSN Afghanistan acts as an engagement platform for the government, to advance problem solving and practical actions for sustainable private sector, universities, research think tanks and civil society development among universities, civil society organizations, and the organizations to promote, encourage and influence evidence-based private sector locally, nationally, and internationally. It also involves solutions, and contribute towards the national development of development experts and professional managers, engineers, business Afghanistan through achieving the Afghanistan Sustainable Development owners, and sustainability and civil society leaders to foster initiatives Goals (A-SDGs) in Afghanistan. The network is set out to work on three that provide solutions and showcase the potential of innovative technical main programs 1) Awareness and Engagement, 2) Teach Afghanistan, and and business transformations in support of sustainable development. 3) Solutions for Sustainable Development during Transformation Decade of 2030 – 2020 by: The UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) was set 1. Engaging Afghans in dialogues on peace up in 2012 under the auspices of the UN Secretary-General to advance 2. Helping and supporting collaboration for sustainable policies and integrated approaches to implement the SDGs and the Paris Agreement programs on Climate Change through four dimensions of education, research, policy 3. Facilitating research and fostering evidence-based solution analysis, and global partnership. The global network is led by a Leadership mechanisms to influence decision-making Council, which gathers leaders in the area of sustainable development 4. Educating the current and the public and future SDG implementers from different sectors and all around the world. Until 2016, the SDSN 5. Advocating for and providing technical support to policy change Secretariat was hosted by the Earth Institute at Columbia University. 6. Helping to attract and align resources towards achievement of Since July 2016, the SDSN Secretariat and the SDG Academy have been A-SDGs hosted by the SDSN Association, a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization. 7. Helping to develop proper reporting mechanisms SDSN has offices in New York, Paris, and Kuala Lumpur. SDSN Afghanistan was approved as a national network in March 2020 and officially launched its activities in August 2020. The network is currently hosted by Kateb University, a leading private university that focuses and works on the areas of education and research.

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www.asdsn.org /AFSDSN @Afgsdsn [email protected] [email protected] +93 72 900 87 09 Darul-Aman Road, Kabul Afghanistan