An interpretive analysis of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals in Hong Kong public universities

This study in the research domain of higher education sustainability addresses issues policy and implementation Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through Hong Kong public universities. The purpose was to critically analyze problématique achieving SDGs by sector. used a post-empiricist qualitative design with Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis an embedded case methodology order explore eight concept ensoulment Higher Education Institution Sustainability Model served as theoretical grounding for interpretative analysis. interpretive results showed broad range university responses governmental support despite small number universities, score authentic SDGs-related efforts, which were fully into educational mission essence from analysis data suggests that universities’ attainment requires ‘salutary detachment’ putting excessive priorities on superficial standards considering global ranking league tables their principal goal. provides structured discussion within five thematic areas: (1) regional-dominant challenges; (2) financing structure independence; (3) institutional organization; (4) extent democratic processes; (5) communication interaction society. argues genuine originates what universities know best regard threefold mission—research, teaching knowledge transfer—to effectively generate citizens full spirit values, thus, turning authentically sustainable institutions.