Utah political, education leaders sign resolution to make higher ed more affordable, attainable – KSL.com

Utah Leaders Commit to Affordable and Accessible Higher Education Aligned with Sustainable Development Goals

Introduction

On Friday, Utah Governor Spencer Cox, alongside legislative and higher education leaders, signed a resolution emphasizing a shared commitment to making higher education more affordable, accessible, and attainable for Utah students. This initiative aligns closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities.

Historical Context and Leadership Commitment

Governor Cox reflected on the historical priority placed on higher education since the pioneer settlers arrived in the Salt Lake Valley in 1847. He highlighted the ongoing efforts to strengthen educational institutions in Utah, reinforcing the state’s dedication to lifelong learning and inclusive education.

• Governor Spencer Cox: Emphasized 176 years of prioritizing higher education in Utah.
• Legislative Leaders: Senate President Stuart Adams and House Speaker Mike Schultz joined the signing, signaling bipartisan support.
• University Presidents: Representatives from institutions across Utah, from Logan to St. George, participated.

Resolution Goals and Legislative Actions

The resolution represents a formal commitment to:

1. Reevaluate and reform higher education programs to ensure effectiveness and relevance.
2. Reallocate funding to maintain low tuition costs and increase affordability.
3. Expand high-priority academic areas that support Utah’s economy and workforce needs.

House Speaker Mike Schultz highlighted the importance of controlling rising education costs, a key concern under SDG 4 and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), to ensure equitable access for all students.

Strategic Reinvestment Initiative

In 2023, the Utah Legislature passed HB265, known as the “strategic reinvestment” initiative. This policy requires Utah’s eight public colleges and universities to:

• Identify and cut funding from programs that are less effective.
• Redirect resources toward programs with high value to students and the state economy.
• Support expansion in fields such as nursing, engineering, critical minerals development, and research.

This approach supports SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by fostering innovation and aligning education with economic development.

Positive Outcomes and Institutional Impact

House Speaker Schultz noted that despite initial tensions between the Legislature and higher education leaders, collaboration resulted in positive outcomes, including:

• Reduced tuition and fees for associate degrees at Weber State University.
• Increased investment in workforce-relevant programs.
• Encouragement for other government sectors to adopt similar budget optimization strategies.

Unified Vision for Higher Education

Utah System of Higher Education Commissioner Geoffrey Landward emphasized the unity among state leaders and educators in maintaining higher education as a pillar of the state’s future, even amid uncertain times. This commitment reflects SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), highlighting collaborative governance.

Southern Utah University President Mindy Benson echoed this optimism, stating that the resolution ensures the system remains:

• Student-centric
• Outcome-focused
• Trustworthy for current and future generations

These principles support SDG 4 by promoting inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities.

Conclusion

The signing of Utah’s Higher Education Resolution marks a significant step toward achieving sustainable development through education. By prioritizing affordability, accessibility, and strategic investment, Utah’s leaders are advancing multiple Sustainable Development Goals to foster a resilient, skilled, and equitable society.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 4: Quality Education
   • The article focuses on making higher education more affordable, accessible, and attainable, directly linking to SDG 4, which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.
2. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
   • The reallocation of funds to high-value programs such as nursing, engineering, and critical minerals development supports economic growth and employment opportunities, aligning with SDG 8.
3. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • Efforts to keep tuition costs low and accessible help reduce inequalities in education access.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. Under SDG 4: Quality Education
   • Target 4.3: Ensure equal access for all women and men to affordable and quality technical, vocational and tertiary education, including university.
   • Target 4.5: Eliminate gender disparities and ensure equal access to all levels of education and vocational training for vulnerable populations.
   • Target 4.7: Ensure that all learners acquire knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development.
2. Under SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
   • Target 8.6: Reduce the proportion of youth not in employment, education or training.
   • Target 8.3: Promote development-oriented policies that support productive activities and decent job creation.
3. Under SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
   • Target 10.2: Empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Indicators related to SDG 4
   • Indicator 4.3.1: Participation rate of youth and adults in formal and non-formal education and training in the previous 12 months.
   • Indicator 4.3.2: Proportion of students enrolled in tertiary education who receive financial support or scholarships to reduce tuition costs.
   • Indicator 4.5.1: Parity indices (female/male, rural/urban, and others) for all education levels.
2. Indicators related to SDG 8
   • Indicator 8.6.1: Proportion of youth (aged 15-24 years) not in education, employment or training.
   • Indicator 8.3.1: Proportion of informal employment in non-agriculture employment, by sex.
3. Indicators related to SDG 10
   • Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50% of median income, by age, sex and persons with disabilities.
4. Implied Indicators
   • Tuition cost trends and affordability measures, as the article emphasizes keeping tuition costs low.
   • Reallocation of funding to high-priority educational programs as a measure of strategic investment effectiveness.
   • Enrollment rates and graduation outcomes in targeted programs like nursing and engineering.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: ksl.com