University of Westminster partners with United Nations Institute for Training and Research to advance social inclusion, health equity, responsible leadership and sustainable growth

This collaboration will explore key areas including regenerative practices, wellbeing, nutrition and sustainable growth, with a particular focus on advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through this partnership, IHUL and UNITAR will work together to develop and deliver research and short courses in the area of urban health and wellbeing, for example in Sustainable Development, Ageing and Longevity, Responsible Leadership, and others. In addition, the relationship will provide valuable support to provide SDG-related content in courses offered at the University of Westminster.

IHUL and UNITAR will actively pursue joint transdisciplinary research initiatives in areas of mutual interest, while also co-hosting international events aimed at fostering dialogue and knowledge exchange.

Professor Brendon Noble, Director of IHUL, said: “We are delighted to be working with UNITAR in such an important area of endeavour. We hold a common interest and passion for improving urban wellbeing, social inclusion, sustainability and health equity across the globe. We look forward to a fruitful relationship and have already envisioned a number of exciting projects of international importance.”

Mr Alex Mejia, Director of the Division for People and Social Inclusion and Managing Director of the CIFAL Global Network, said: “We are proud to embark on this strategic partnership with the Institute for Healthy Urban Living at the University of Westminster. This collaboration represents a shared commitment to addressing some of the most pressing challenges of our time — urban health, social inclusion, and sustainable development. By joining forces, we are not only expanding the global reach of our educational and research efforts, but also reinforcing the importance of placing people and communities at the heart of sustainable growth. We celebrate this partnership as a powerful step forward in our collective mission to equip current and future leaders with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to drive meaningful change across cities worldwide.”

IHUL at the University of Westminster is a leading hub for innovative research and collaboration aimed at improving urban health and wellbeing worldwide. Located in central London, it fosters partnerships with both industry and community groups, aiming to create healthy, sustainable, bio-aware urban environments while directly engaging city dwellers through health assessments and treatments. Leveraging a diverse, transdisciplinary approach, IHUL engages with over 100 research groups across various academic and industry sector fields and utilises a transdisciplinary approach to tackle urban health challenges locally and globally.

UNITAR is a dedicated training arm of the United Nations, established in 1963 to enhance the effectiveness of the UN through training and capacity development. Its mission is to develop individual, institutional, and organizational capacities in countries — particularly developing nations and those in transition — to support global decision-making and promote sustainable development. UNITAR offers a wide range of courses and programs in areas such as diplomacy, peace and security, climate change, disaster risk reduction, and sustainable development, leveraging innovative technologies and partnerships to reach diverse learners around the world.

This partnership directly contributes to the UN SDGs 3: Good Health and Wellbeing, 4: Quality Education and 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.  

Learn more about the Institute for Healthy Urban Living at the University of Westminster.