King Salman International University (KSIU) is committed to supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through education, research, and community service. Among these, SDG 2 – Zero Hunger – holds a vital place within the University’s strategy to promote food security, sustainable agriculture, and nutrition awareness in Egypt, particularly in South Sinai. This report highlights the University’s initiatives, policies, and partnerships that contribute to the achievement of this global goal.
General Background
Ending hunger and ensuring food security remain among the world’s most pressing challenges. According to the United Nations, nearly one in ten people globally suffer from undernourishment. Agriculture continues to be the primary source of livelihood for more than 40% of the world’s population. Women make up about 43% of the agricultural workforce in developing countries, yet own less than 20% of agricultural land, limiting their productivity and contribution to household and community food security.
SDG 2 aims to end hunger in all its forms by 2030, ensuring that everyone has access to safe, nutritious, and sufficient food year-round through:
- Supporting small-scale farmers and increasing their productivity and income.
- Promoting sustainable food production systems.
- Enhancing soil quality and efficient management of natural resources.
- Reducing food loss and waste.
- Preserving genetic diversity of seeds and local crops.
In Egypt, food security is a key pillar of Egypt Vision 2030, which emphasizes sustainable agriculture, efficient water management, and climate-smart farming. In alignment with this national direction, KSIU contributes to achieving SDG 2 through education, research, and community engagement, primarily via the Faculty of Desert Agriculture, which represents a pioneering model in supporting agricultural development in arid environments and promoting food security in South Sinai.
University Efforts to Achieve SDG 2
KSIU addresses hunger and food security challenges through an integrated approach involving education, research, community service, and strategic partnerships. The University’s main initiatives include:
- Education and Capacity Building
The Faculty of Desert Agriculture offers specialized programs in agricultural technology, food security, and livestock and crop production to prepare graduates capable of applying innovative and sustainable agricultural solutions.
Practical courses and student projects raise awareness of food and water issues and encourage innovation to serve local communities.
KSIU students from the Faculty of Agricultural and Food Industries participated in field training programs focusing on food production, safety, and sustainability, enhancing agricultural capacities and improving food quality. - Research and Innovation
Between 2021 and 2024, KSIU researchers published 13 scientific papers related to SDG 2, with a total field-weighted impact of 46.66 and 1,459 citations, according toScival data.
The University encourages international research collaborations addressing sustainable agriculture and food security, focusing on resource efficiency and crop productivity under desert conditions.
Researchers at KSIU work on developing new plant and animal varieties with high productivity and adaptability to desert climates, supporting national food security efforts. - Community Engagement
The University organizes agricultural and community convoys across South Sinai to raise awareness among farmers and local residents, providing guidance and technical support.
KSIU ensures sustainable food management within its campuses by implementing policies for responsible food consumption and eco-friendly waste management.
Healthy and balanced meals are provided in university cafeterias and student dormitories to ensure proper nutrition for all students and staff.
Students from the Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology conducted public health and nutrition awareness campaigns, supporting community well-being and food security. - Partnerships and Collaborations
KSIU collaborates with government agencies and international organizations such as the General Authority for Healthcare and the United Nations DevelopmentProgramme (UNDP) to support projects related to agriculture and food security.
The Faculty of Desert Agriculture organized workshops on sustainable farming practices and modern irrigation technologies in South Sinai, contributing to desert agriculture development.
Field visits organized by the Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality included training on sustainable food services and food waste reduction in hotels and resorts, promoting responsible consumption practices.
The University hosted an awareness seminar titled “Key Challenges and Threats Facing Egypt,” which addressed issues of food security and resource sustainability at the national level.
University Policies Supporting SDG 2
KSIU adopts an integrated policy framework to actively contribute to achieving SDG 2 through academic excellence, sustainable campus operations, and community impact. The main features include:
- Promoting academic leadership in sustainable agriculture and food technology through the Faculty of Desert Agriculture.
- Providing healthy and affordable meals across its campuses in El-Tor, Ras Sudr, and Sharm El Sheikh.
- Implementing sustainable food and waste management practices to minimize food loss.
- Conducting applied research on crop and livestock improvement for arid environments.
- Supporting anti-desertification projects and awareness campaigns on soil conservation.
- Offering technical and consultancy services to the agricultural sector and local communities.
- Delivering capacity-building and knowledge transfer programs in food security and sustainable agriculture.
- Organizing agricultural convoys and outreach programs to strengthen links between the University and local farmers.
Through these diverse initiatives, King Salman International University demonstrates a strong and continuous commitment to eradicating hunger, improving nutrition, and promoting sustainable agriculture in alignment with Egypt Vision 2030 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.