The University of Santo Tomas (UST) continues to advance its mission of forming self-reliant, interdependent, and empowered partner communities through a wide range of community development and advocacy projects. As the University looks ahead to its 2025 goals, the accomplishments in 2024 demonstrate remarkable progress, exceeding several key targets and reaffirming UST’s commitment to holistic social transformation.
Under the theme “Self-reliant, Inter-dependent, and Empowered Partner Communities and Institutions,” UST recorded significant achievements across various advocacies.
The University of Santo Tomas (UST) continues to strengthen its role as a leading advocate for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through impactful community engagement, advocacy, and empowerment programs. As the University looks ahead to its 2025 goals, the University implemented a total of 651 SDG-aligned projects, showcasing Thomasian compassion in action and reaffirming its commitment to holistic social transformation.
Health, Education, and Well-being at the Forefront
UST made its most significant contributions under SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) with 175 projects, reflecting the University’s enduring commitment to community wellness, preventive health care, and holistic development. Likewise, under SDG 4 (Quality Education), UST spearheaded 152 initiatives aimed at promoting equitable and inclusive learning opportunities—affirming its dedication to transforming lives through education.
Economic Empowerment and Decent Livelihoods
Aligned with SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), UST implemented 37 and 38 projects respectively, advancing employability, entrepreneurship, and sustainable innovation in local communities. The University’s focus on social enterprise and capacity building also contributed to SDG 1 (No Poverty) with 13 projects and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) with 16 initiatives, providing livelihood support and food security to marginalized groups.
Equality, Inclusion, and Governance
UST’s commitment to SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) was evident through 28 and 70 projects that empowered women, promoted inclusivity, and upheld the dignity of every person. The University also demonstrated excellence in advancing SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) with 55 governance and leadership programs, reinforcing the Thomasian identity as a catalyst for ethical and effective leadership in both civil and ecclesial communities.
Sustainable Communities and Environmental Action
With 51 projects supporting SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), UST deepened its partnerships to build resilient, culturally rooted, and sustainable localities. Environmental stewardship remained central to its mission, with 30 projects for SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), 27 projects for SDG 13 (Climate Action), and 25 projects for SDG 15 (Life on Land)—all contributing to the preservation of ecological balance and the promotion of climate resilience. Complementing these efforts were 14 projects for SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and 9 projects under SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), both focused on water conservation and aquatic ecosystem protection.
Energy, Family, and Community Partnerships
In response to SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), UST launched 11 community initiatives promoting renewable energy and sustainable resource management. Collectively, these projects underscore the University’s pursuit of SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals)—building meaningful collaborations with government agencies, NGOs, local communities, and the Church.
A Thomasian Commitment to Sustainable Futures
As UST prepares for its 2025 targets, its SDG-aligned programs continue to embody the University’s mission to integrate faith, knowledge, and action in service of humanity.
Through 2024’s milestones, UST reaffirms its vital role in national and global sustainability—proving that every Thomasian act of compassion contributes to a more just, inclusive, and sustainable world.