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The UP–DLSU Inter-University Roundtable on Governance and SDG Localization was convened to strengthen collaboration among higher education institutions, local government units (LGUs), development organizations, and other key stakeholders in advancing governance and the localization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Jointly organized by the University of the Philippines (UP) and De La Salle University (DLSU), the Roundtable served as a platform for exchanging knowledge, sharing institutional experiences, and exploring research-informed and policy-oriented approaches to sustainable local governance.
Anchored on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Roundtable recognized that achieving the SDGs requires effective implementation at the local level. It highlighted the important role of universities in generating evidence-based research, supporting capacity development, and working closely with LGUs to translate global development commitments into practical and context-responsive policies and programs. The discussions also emphasized the value of sustained dialogue among scholars, policymakers, practitioners, and local government representatives in bridging the gap between research and public policy.
The Roundtable was guided by three objectives: (1) to exchange best practices and institutional experiences on governance and SDG localization among UP, DLSU, and partner LGUs; (2) to identify research-to-policy pathways that strengthen evidence-informed local governance; and (3) to collaboratively develop a policy note outlining shared priorities and recommendations for enhancing university–LGU partnerships.
The two-day program was designed to provide complementary perspectives on SDG localization. The first day, hosted by the University of the Philippines, focused on participatory governance, inclusive decision-making, and the role of university–LGU partnerships in advancing local development. The second day, hosted by De La Salle University, examined governance innovations, policy coherence, monitoring and evaluation, and practical governance tools that support the translation of research and local experiences into policy and institutional practice.
These proceedings document the key discussions, insights, and recommendations generated throughout the Roundtable. They highlight the shared commitment of participating institutions to strengthening governance through evidence-informed policymaking, collaborative partnerships, and localized approaches to sustainable development. By capturing the collective knowledge and outcomes of the event, this document aims to support continued collaboration among universities, local governments, and development stakeholders in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals.