Through joint research, community projects, and student engagement, TU and NGOs work together to create practical solutions that advance the SDGs locally, regionally, and globally. Here are some examples of how TU has collaborated with NGOs in recent years:
Partnership with Local Environmental NGOs
- TU collaborates with environmental NGOs, such as the Oklahoma Sustainability Network (OSN) and Nature Conservancy Oklahoma, to work on projects related to climate. These partnerships focus on conducting research and community-based initiatives to mitigate the impacts of climate change in the region.
- For example, in 2022, TU’s National Energy Policy Institute (NEPI) teamed up with OSN to develop a sustainability plan for the city of Tulsa. This plan outlined strategies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, increasing energy efficiency, and promoting the use of renewable energy in local businesses and government operations. The collaboration aimed at achieving long-term sustainability goals aligned with state and national climate action policies.
Public Health Initiatives with Global Health NGOs
- TU’s Oxley College of Health Sciences partnered with NGOs like Doctors Without Borders and Community Health Connection to tackle health related issues. In 2023, TU students and faculty worked with these NGOs to improve healthcare access for underserved populations in Tulsa, focusing on both urban and rural health challenges.
- One notable project involved creating mobile healthcare units that provide medical services in remote areas of Oklahoma. This initiative addressed healthcare inequities by offering free consultations and preventive care services to low-income and rural communities. TU’s involvement in this project included providing research on effective healthcare delivery models and training for healthcare workers, helping the NGOs expand their reach and impact.
Collaborative Educational Programs with NGOs
- TU works closely with education-focused NGOs such as Teach For America and Tulsa Educare to address quality education. Through these partnerships, TU engages in programs aimed at improving educational outcomes for disadvantaged children and expanding access to early childhood education.
- In 2022, TU partnered with Tulsa Educare to support educational programs for at-risk children in the city. TU’s College of Education contributed by developing teacher training programs, conducting research on early childhood education best practices, and providing mentorship to local educators. These efforts helped improve educational opportunities for low-income families and promoted inclusive and equitable quality education.
Water and Sanitation Projects with NGOs
- TU collaborates with water conservation NGOs like Water4 and the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) to tackle issues related to water and sanitation. In 2023, TU’s environmental science faculty worked with these NGOs to develop strategies for improving water quality and access in rural Oklahoma communities facing drought and water scarcity.
- This collaboration focused on both research and community engagement. TU provided scientific expertise on water resource management and worked alongside the NGOs to implement water purification technologies in underserved areas. The joint effort led to tangible improvements in water access and sanitation, ensuring communities had access to safe, clean drinking water.
Economic Development and Social Enterprises with NGOs
- Date: 2024
- In 2024, TU partnered with NGOs like Global Partnerships and Goodwill Industries of Tulsa to promote economic growth. This collaboration focused on providing job training and economic opportunities to marginalized communities, including low-income families and people with disabilities.
- TU’s Collins College of Business worked with Goodwill to design and implement vocational training programs aimed at helping individuals develop the skills needed for employment in emerging industries. The partnership also focused on creating sustainable business models for local social enterprises, supporting entrepreneurship and job creation within the Tulsa community.
Sustainable Development and Urban Resilience
- TU collaborates with urban development NGOs such as Strong Towns and Urban Land Institute (ULI) to support the development of sustainable and resilient cities, advancing SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. These partnerships focus on urban planning, disaster resilience, and sustainable infrastructure.
- In 2023, TU worked with ULI to research sustainable housing models and green infrastructure for Tulsa. The project involved designing affordable, energy-efficient housing units and improving public transportation systems to reduce the city’s carbon footprint. TU’s contribution included conducting environmental impact assessments and providing expertise on sustainable urban development practices.
Partnership with International NGOs on Gender Equality
- TU collaborated with international NGOs such as HeForShe and Plan International USA to promote Gender Equality. In 2022, TU organized a series of workshops in partnership with HeForShe, focusing on advancing gender equality on campus and in the broader community.
- The workshops addressed issues such as gender-based violence, workplace inequality, and women’s leadership. TU faculty and students worked closely with NGO leaders to create advocacy campaigns and policy recommendations aimed at fostering a more inclusive environment in Oklahoma.
Environmental Restoration with Conservation NGOs
- TU collaborates with conservation NGOs like The Nature Conservancy and Wildlife Conservation Society. These partnerships focus on habitat restoration, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable land use.
- In 2023, TU researchers worked with The Nature Conservancy to restore prairies and wetlands in Oklahoma, contributing to biodiversity preservation and sustainable agriculture practices. TU’s role involved conducting ecological assessments and advising on land management strategies, helping protect endangered species and ecosystems in the region.
Through these diverse collaborations with NGOs, the University of Tulsa makes significant contributions to advancing the SDGs, both locally and globally. These partnerships leverage the university’s academic resources, research capabilities, and community engagement to create practical solutions that address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.