Master of Sustainable Development Goals wins silver at Global Education Awards

Massey's Master of Sustainable Development Goals (MSDG) has won silver in the Sustainability Education Literacy category at the prestigious QS Reimagine Education Awards, widely regarded as the “Oscars of Education.”

The international awards attracted more than 1,600 entries from around the world, celebrating innovative projects and pedagogies that are transforming education globally.

Massey’s MSDG programme was recognised for its real-world impact, placing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the heart of higher education.

Launched in 2020, the cross-disciplinary programme sees students complete a semester-long practicum instead of a thesis, allowing them to turn theory into action.

The award citation noted the importance and prominence of a programme like the MSDG.
“This one-of-a-kind, interdisciplinary programme places the United Nations SDGs at the heart of higher education, blending theory and practice with Indigenous knowledge and alternative development models. Students gain the tools to analyse complex systems and measure impact while semester-long professional placements connect learning directly to community, businesses and government. Graduates emerge as skilled change-makers, ready to lead transformative initiatives for a just and sustainable future.”

Massey University Provost Professor Giselle Byrnes says this is a great achievement for the staff and the students delivering the programme.

“The QS Reimagine Education Awards are known for recognising world-class innovative projects that are genuinely transforming education. This achievement reflects our team’s commitment to excellence, sustainability and impact. By pushing boundaries and delivering meaningful outcomes, we aim not only to advance Massey’s leadership in sustainability education but also to inspire innovation across the sector.”

Programme lead Professor Regina Scheyvens says the qualification attracts a diverse range of students.

“Our students come from up and down the motu, and all around the world, with backgrounds spanning, for example, engineering, education, health, community development, agriculture, business sustainability. This leads to some exciting classroom and online learning experiences.”

Tackling real-world problems with a hands-on approach

Recent MSDG graduate Emily Lafai says the programme has deepened her understanding of global and regional challenges, especially those affecting small island nations like Tuvalu.

Now back in Tuvalu, Emily feels more confident in her role at the Department of Waste and is equipped with new knowledge and skills that will help strengthen national systems.

“Waste is a growing challenge for Tuvalu, given the limited disposal space that we have and low-lying islands that are vulnerable to rising sea levels,” Emily explains.

“Through my studies at Massey I have developed a deeper understanding of sustainable waste practices, circular economy principles and how to design effective, community-driven policies. Whether it’s improving waste segregation, enhancing public awareness or strengthening legislative frameworks, I’m passionate about making a lasting impact in this area. Ultimately, I want to ensure that Tuvalu moves toward a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable future for generations to come.”