Contributing to SDG 1 through Teaching and Research
Our teaching equips students with the knowledge, critical thinking, and practical skills needed to challenge poverty, inequality, and social exclusion in all their forms.
Through programmes in social policy, community development, peacebuilding, and related fields, students gain a deep understanding of the complex economic, cultural, and political factors that shape communities, while also developing hands-on experience through projects and placements.
Our research tackles the root causes of poverty both locally and globally, working in partnership with individuals, organisations, and policymakers to create meaningful and lasting change.
By combining education, innovation, and collaboration, Ulster University is committed to advancing social justice, dignity, and opportunity for all, helping to build more inclusive and equitable societies.
Teaching
Ulster University’s programmes in social policy, community development, and peacebuilding equip students to tackle poverty, inequality, and social exclusion. Combining theory with practical experience, students explore the impact of conflict, economic, and cultural factors on communities and gain skills to create positive change. Graduates are prepared to work locally and internationally with governments, NGOs, and grassroots organisations to promote social justice and inclusive, peaceful societies.
Research
Social Justice Institute
The Social Justice Institute combines traditional legal research with innovative interdisciplinary methods to address entrenched issues like poverty, access to justice, human trafficking, and immigration. It collaborates with communities and organisations to develop research and policies that promote dignity, respect, empowerment, human rights, and sustainability.
Find out more about the Social Justice Institute
Latest output by Ulster University researchers
To find out more about the research at Ulster University that contributes to SDG 1, visit PURE, the Ulster University research portal.
Contributing to SDG 1 through Partnerships and Engagement
Through partnerships with local councils, charities, schools, and community groups, Ulster delivers targeted programmes that enhance skills, improve employability, and support lifelong learning. Widening access schemes and financial assistance initiatives help those from low-income backgrounds to enter higher education, while research and policy engagement inform practical solutions to poverty at both regional and global levels.
In addition, Ulster’s community development and social policy expertise directly supports grassroots projects, empowering people to create sustainable change in their own communities. From delivering free public lectures and workshops, to mentoring entrepreneurs in disadvantaged areas, the University’s outreach fosters resilience, self-reliance, and social mobility.
Other ways Ulster contributes to SDG 1
Lifestyle Hub
The Lifestyle Hubs at Ulster University, located on the Belfast, Coleraine, and Derry~Londonderry campuses, are welcoming spaces designed to support students' everyday wellbeing and financial resilience.
These hubs provide access to a wide range of free essential items, including store cupboard food staples, toiletries, and sexual health products, helping to ease the burden of day-to-day living costs.
In addition, students can speak directly with the university’s Student Money Coordinators, who are available to offer personalised advice on budgeting, managing money, and accessing any financial support they may be eligible for.
Find out more about the Lifestyle Hub
Free Period Products
Ulster University is actively working to eliminate period poverty by providing free period products to both staff and students across its campuses.
Free period products are currently available in 22 designated toilet facilities across the University’s Belfast, Coleraine, and Derry~Londonderry campuses, alongside the Jordanstown Sports Village.
This provision aims to support those in need, reduce stigma, and foster a more equitable and supportive campus environment.
Visit our Sustainable Activities - SDG 1 page to find out more.
