The Faculty of Organizational Studies “Eduka” recognizes the importance of integrating ESG principles (Environmental, Social, and Governance) into its academic, research, and operational activities. ESG approaches are essential for conserving resources, supporting social responsibility, and strengthening transparency in governance, which is particularly important for educational institutions.
In order to reaffirm our full commitment to the principles of sustainability, we have aligned our operations with selected United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), with a particular focus on Goal 4 (Quality Education), Goal 5 (Gender Equality), Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and Goal 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions).
As part of the process of aligning our operations with sustainability principles, we conducted a materiality assessment in accordance with SASB standards, identifying key topics that we plan to integrate into our operations and future development. The identified material topics include:
- Energy consumption
- Waste reduction
- Community relations
- Equality and inclusion
- Business ethics
We recognize these topics as essential to our long-term contribution to sustainable development and responsible governance.
In line with the materiality assessment and the identified priorities, during the 2024/2025 academic year, the Faculty implemented a series of initiatives that directly contribute to sustainable development and social responsibility, in accordance with SASB standards and the UN SDGs.
ENVIRONMENTAL (ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION)
Sustainable Energy Consumption
During the 2024/2025 academic year, the Faculty completed the replacement of lighting with LED technology across all its facilities. This measure resulted in a 12% reduction in electricity consumption compared to the previous year.
Waste Reduction (Paper Neutrality)
The Faculty implemented an electronic submission system for essays, entrance assignments, and seminar papers, resulting in a 40% reduction in paper consumption. Students and teaching staff are actively encouraged to use digital materials, contributing to the preservation of natural resources and the modernization of educational processes.
SOCIAL (SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY)
Equality and Inclusion
The Faculty consistently implements an equal opportunities policy, ensuring fair access to admission, employment, and career advancement for all applicants and employees, regardless of gender, ethnic background, disability, or economic status. Our commitment to equality and inclusion is the foundation for creating an open and supportive academic environment.
To provide additional support to students, the Faculty has developed a Mental Health Support Program, which includes free workshops with psychologists and access to a helpline providing psychological support. This program offers students a safe space for conversation, support, and empowerment throughout their studies.
As part of our strategy to promote sustainable development, the Scholarship ESG Program has also been introduced. It rewards students who engage with sustainability topics through their research papers. The program provides tuition fee reductions in recognition of their contribution to the development of knowledge in the field of sustainable development.
Community Relations
The Faculty actively develops cooperation with local communities through various initiatives that promote sustainability and social responsibility. During the year, four volunteering events were organized, including environmental activities and workshops for unemployed individuals on starting small businesses, providing practical support for local development.
As part of joint activities with community partners, the Faculty participated in the planting of 200 trees on Divčibare, contributing to the preservation of natural resources and the improvement of the environment.
The professional internship program in tourism has been enhanced with a mandatory social responsibility component, through which students actively volunteer in environmental and cultural projects, gaining valuable experience in sustainable development.
In addition to practical activities, new educational content dedicated to sustainable development, ESG standards, and the circular economy has been introduced into tourism and business courses. As part of these initiatives, three public lectures on the topic of “Tourism and Environmental Protection” were also organized, with the aim of raising awareness and encouraging dialogue among students and the wider community.
GOVERNANCE (GOVERNANCE)
Business Ethics
The Code of Ethics for teaching staff, associates, and students has been updated, with particular emphasis on the application of ESG principles in everyday academic and administrative activities, further strengthening a culture of integrity and responsibility. An ESG Committee has been established, bringing together representatives of teaching staff, students, and administration. Its primary role is to monitor the implementation of ESG initiatives and propose measures for their continuous improvement. A comprehensive ESG risk assessment has also been conducted at the Faculty level, focusing on resource consumption management, the protection of employee and student rights, and compliance with relevant environmental protection and labor rights regulations.
PLANS FOR THE UPCOMING PERIOD
For the 2025/2026 academic year, the Faculty plans a series of initiatives aimed at strengthening sustainability, improving the quality of education, and enhancing student support. The key planned steps include:
Installation of Solar Panels
The installation of solar panels on the roof of one of the buildings is planned, which would provide the Faculty with a degree of energy autonomy and further reduce electricity consumption.
Modernization of Academic Programs
The modernization of syllabi at all levels of study is planned through the integration of topics related to sustainable development, ESG standards, and the circular economy, enabling students to acquire up-to-date knowledge and skills relevant to global challenges.
Publication of Professional Literature on Sustainability
A book dedicated to advanced sustainable development practices in tourism is being prepared for publication. It will serve as a resource and source of knowledge for students and the professional community.
Expansion of the Mental Health Support Program
The Mental Health Support Program will be further developed through cooperation with external organizations, psychological counseling centers, and the non-governmental sector, with the aim of providing comprehensive support to students.
Introduction of ESG Courses in Three Key Areas
Specialized courses on ESG topics will be introduced within study programs in business, tourism, and psychology, focusing on the practical aspects of implementing sustainable business practices, responsible tourism, and social psychology from a sustainability perspective.