Global Governance and Sustainable Strategy

Course title

R0485000

Course description

Since the adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in 2015, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have shaped how societies approach pressing global issues—from climate change and inequality to responsible production and decent work. While governments are key drivers, the private sector plays a growing role in shaping solutions through innovation, investment, and corporate responsibility.

This course introduces students to the SDGs, explores governance frameworks, and critically examines how businesses engage with sustainable development. It emphasizes case-based learning, group discussions, and student-led inquiry.

Purpose of class

Students will explore the diverse landscape of global challenges within the framework of the 2030 Agenda, recognizing the pivotal role of the private sector in advancing sustainability initiatives. By analyzing case studies and emerging trends, students will gain insights into practical strategies that foster progress towards the SDGs.

Goals and objectives

Students can explain the principles and objectives of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its associated SDGs.
Students can analyze the evolving role of the private sector in addressing global challenges.
Students can critically assess real-world corporate sustainability strategies.
Students can critically evaluate sustainable development initiatives within their professional spheres.

Relationship between 'Goals and Objectives' and 'Course Outcomes'

	Weekly report	Presentation	Final report	Total.
1.	15%	5%	5%	25%
2.	10%	5%	5%	20%
3.	15%	10%	5%	30%
4.	10%	10%	5%	25%
Total.	50%	30%	20%	-

Language

English

Class schedule

	Class schedule	HW assignments (Including preparation and review of the class.)	Amount of Time Required
1.	Course Introduction: What are the SDGs? What is governance? Why include the private sector?	Read assigned course material	100minutes
2.	Private Sector & SDGs: Trends, expectations, and governance challenges	Read assigned course material	120minutes
3.	Value Creation: From shareholder to stakeholder models (Japan & global)	Read assigned course material	120minutes
4.	Environment I: Business & climate change	Read assigned course material	120minutes
5.	Environment II: Biodiversity, materials, waste	Read assigned course material	120minutes
6.	Society I: Stakeholder engagement, transparency, greenwashing	Read assigned course material	120minutes
7.	Society II: Business & social issues (poverty, inequality)	Read assigned course material	120minutes
8.	Mid-semester Workshop: Group research topic planning	Read assigned course material	120minutes
9.	Workplace Issues: Wellbeing, work style reform, maternity leave	Read assigned course material	120minutes
10.	Diversity & Inclusion: Gender, disability, culture	Read assigned course material	120minutes
11.	Global Supply Chains: Human rights, traceability, due diligence	Read assigned course material	120minutes
12.	Student group research task preparation	Submission of presentation material	120minutes
13.	Final Presentations I	Submission of presentation material	120minutes
14.	Final Presentations II + Wrap-up	Final Report	120minutes
Total.	-	-	1660minutes

Evaluation method and criteria

Weekly report （50%）presentation （30%）、final report (20%)

If you miss 4 classes or more, you will get a D grade.

Feedback on exams, assignments, etc.

ways of feedback	specific contents about "Other"
Feedback in the class

Textbooks and reference materials

Learning materials will be distributed at the classes.

Prerequisites

Students must have a TOEIC score of at least 495 (or equivalent) to enroll in this course, as it requires intermediate English reading, listening, and communication skills.

Office hours and How to contact professors for questions

Office hours are every Wednesday from 12:30-13:10. Be sure to make an appointment in advance.
Consultations via email and face-to-face appointments are accepted at any time. If you have any questions, please contact me by email.

Regionally-oriented

Non-regionally-oriented course

Development of social and professional independence