Sustainability in Action: Analyzing Mahasarakham University’s Integration of SDGs in Education, Research, and Operations

Abstract

The UI GreenMetric World University Ranking has become a widely adopted instrument for benchmarking institutional sustainability performance; nevertheless, empirically grounded evidence from universities in diverse regional contexts remains scarce. This study undertakes a rigorous appraisal of the extent to which Mahasarakham University (MSU) has institutionalized the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within its pedagogical offerings, research portfolio, community outreach, and governance arrangements during the 2021–2024 strategic cycle. Employing a mixed-methods design and guided by the 2024 UI GreenMetric Education and Research indicators, this investigation analyzed institutional datasets pertaining to curriculum provision, ring-fenced research funding, 574 peer-reviewed sustainability publications, student-led community initiatives, and supporting governance mechanisms; the analysis was interpreted through a Plan–Do–Check–Act management lens. The number of sustainability-oriented academic programs expanded from 49 to 58. Student participation in community service activities strongly recovered following the COVID-19 pandemic, and MSU’s GreenMetric score increased from 7575 to 8475, thereby elevating the institution to the 100th position globally. These gains were facilitated by strategic SDG-aligned investment, cross-sector collaboration, and the consolidation of international partnerships anchored in Thailand’s Isaan region. The MSU case provides a transferable model for universities—particularly those operating in resource-constrained contexts—endeavoring to align institutional development with the SDGs and internationally recognized quality benchmarks. The findings substantiate the capacity of transformative education and applied research to engender enduring societal and environmental benefits.

1. Introduction

Universitas Indonesia (UI) took the significant and groundbreaking step of establishing a framework for global university rankings in 2010 through the introduction of the UI Green Metric World University Rankings, a developed initiative that was specifically designed to critically assess and evaluate the various sustainability initiatives and practices that are being implemented within university campuses across the globe. This progressive initiative sought to create a comprehensive online platform that would effectively showcase and highlight the diverse sustainability policies, programs, and efforts of universities from all corners of the world, thereby promoting a greater awareness and understanding of sustainable practices in higher education institutions [1,2,3,4].

The framework of the UI GreenMetric is fundamentally anchored in the essential principles of environmental sustainability, economic viability, and social equity, which concurrently function as the critical foundational components that underpin the comprehensive sustainability initiatives being implemented at Mahasarakham University. The ranking system that has been established is constructed around globally recognized indicators and carefully calibrated weightings that have been specifically designed to effectively reduce the potential for biases in the evaluation process. The procedure for data collection has been significantly optimized, thereby requiring only a relatively modest allocation of staff time, which facilitates a more efficient approach to gathering the necessary information. The very first edition of the UI GreenMetric Rankings, which was launched in 2010, featured a total of 95 universities distributed across 35 different countries, with participating institutions hailing from various regions, including the United States, which contributed 18 universities, Europe, which accounted for 35 universities, Asia, represented by 40 universities, and Australia, which had 2 universities partake in the assessment. By 2024, the total number of universities that chose to participate in the ranking system had expanded dramatically to encompass 1477 distinct institutions, which collectively spanned an impressive array of 95 countries around the globe [5,6,7,8,9,10]. The remarkable expansion that has been observed in recent times serves to highlight and emphasize the distinctive and unparalleled position that the UI GreenMetric occupies within the realm of global university ranking systems, as it stands out as the inaugural and singular initiative to place a predominant focus on the critical theme of sustainability. Figure 1 demonstrates the growth in the UI GreenMetric Rankings since 2010.

Several complementary sustainability ranking frameworks—namely the THE Impact Rankings, QS Sustainability Rankings, STARS (AASHE), and U-Multirank’s Sustainable Universities Dimension—have also been considered to situate UI GreenMetric within the wider evaluative landscape. These systems differ from UI GreenMetric in their indicator weighting schemes, data provenance, and geographic participation, thereby offering alternative perspectives on institutional performance. Recent research [11,12] has identified the common limitations shared by all ranking methodologies, including the reliance on self-reported data, indicator redundancy, limited attention to governance and social-equity variables, and the risk of rankings-driven policy eclipsing mission-driven change. Notwithstanding these constraints, this study retains UI GreenMetric as its principal analytical lens owing to its longitudinal dataset and strong emphasis on operational sustainability; however, future investigations will triangulate Mahasarakham University’s performance across multiple frameworks to enrich comparative insights.

Although this study primarily adopts the UI GreenMetric framework as its main analytical lens, comparisons with other frameworks—such as the THE Impact Rankings, QS Sustainability Rankings, and STARS (AASHE)—can enhance understanding of the differences in assessment approaches, indicator structures, and thematic emphasis on policy and social impact. In particular, STARS places strong emphasis on social equity and student engagement, while QS highlights global-level impact. Despite its limitations related to reliance on self-reported data, UI GreenMetric stands out for its operational performance metrics and longitudinal data coverage, making it particularly suitable for evaluating universities in regional contexts such as Mahasarakham University. Future studies should consider integrating these various frameworks to enrich comparative analysis across institutions at the international level.

The rankings, which are designed with the intent to enhance and promote robust academic discourse surrounding the critical issue of sustainability within the realms of educational methodologies and the operational practices of university campuses, endeavor to create a rich environment for intellectual exchange. By offering a comprehensive platform that facilitates the benchmarking and systematic evaluation of various campus sustainability initiatives and efforts, these rankings not only motivate universities to actively pursue ambitious sustainability objectives but also inspire them to engage in innovative practices and make substantial and meaningful contributions that positively impact both local and global communities. Furthermore, these initiatives serve to elevate the level of awareness and understanding among governmental bodies, environmental advocacy organizations, and the general populace regarding the various sustainability initiatives being undertaken within the context of higher education institutions. In 2024, the predominant theme that emerged was “Innovation, Impacts, and Future Directions of Sustainable Universities”, which effectively underscored the pivotal role that universities play in the advancement of comprehensive sustainability programs, the formulation of impactful policies, and the introduction of groundbreaking innovations, thereby building upon the significant progress that was made in the preceding year [13,14,15,16,17,18].

The GreenMetric initiative undertakes a comprehensive evaluation of universities, analyzing their performance across six pivotal dimensions, which collectively contribute to a maximum achievable score of 10,000 points; these dimensions are as follows: Setting and Infrastructure (SI), Energy and Climate Change (EC), Waste Management (WS), Water Usage (WR), Transportation (TR), and Education and Research (ED). Among these critical dimensions, it is particularly noteworthy that education and research hold a position of exceptional importance, as they function as fundamental catalysts for both academic advancement and societal development, thus ensuring alignment with the national standards established by Thailand for the assurance of educational quality [19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26,27,28,29,30].

Mahasarakham University (MSU), which is a prominent public institution of higher learning situated within the geographical confines of Thailand, undertakes a comprehensive and multifaceted mission that encompasses a wide array of responsibilities including, but not limited to, the realms of education, research, the provision of academic services, and the preservation of cultural heritage. MSU not only provides a diverse range of educational opportunities such as undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, but it has also consistently demonstrated a steadfast commitment to the pursuit of sustainable development through the introduction of innovative academic programs and the allocation of funding for research initiatives designed to yield significant benefits for society and the surrounding communities. At present, it is noteworthy that out of a total of 95 academic programs offered by the university, 55 of these are aligned with the principles of sustainability, which serves to reflect MSU’s unwavering dedication to the integration of sustainability into the very core of its operational framework [31,32].

Since 2011, Mahasarakham University (MSU) has been actively and consistently engaged in the rigorous process of participating in the esteemed UI GreenMetric World University Rankings, which assesses various dimensions of sustainability in higher education institutions around the globe. The comprehensive gathered data pertaining to both education and research is not only fundamental for fulfilling the educational quality standards set forth by Thailand but is also critically important for augmenting the overall reputation and standing of the university within the context of these significant global rankings. The intrinsic strengths of MSU can be attributed to its unwavering commitment to adhering to the national curriculum standards while simultaneously ensuring alignment with the specific criteria outlined by the GreenMetric in both educational practices and research endeavors. In its sustainability strategy, the university commits to educating graduates equipped to address the complex and evolving needs of global society, achieving excellence in international research, providing academic services attuned to contemporary challenges, advancing the distinctive cultural heritage of the Isaan region on the global stage, and embedding robust administrative practices throughout the institution. These five strategic pillars serve as the foundational elements that propel the university’s concerted efforts to achieve preeminence in the various indicators established by the GreenMetric framework [30,33].

Achieving the ambitious and critical objective of sustainable development necessitates the systematic and rigorous conduct of annual evaluations and reviews of financial budgets, operational activities, and resultant outcomes that are intricately linked to the domains of education and research. This cyclical and iterative process not only provides MSU with the opportunity to refine and enhance its operational methodologies but also ensures that it can effectively align its practices with the stringent assessment criteria established by the GreenMetric, ultimately facilitating the generation of superior outcomes and valuable insights that contribute to its overarching mission. Through the careful analysis of historical performance data alongside the insightful lessons gleaned from previous experiences, MSU is strategically positioning itself to advance its developmental strategies in a manner that is both informed and responsive, thereby enabling the institution to achieve its long-term objectives and aspirations with greater efficacy and precision.

This comprehensive research endeavor analyzes the operational data accumulated over the past four years at MSU with the explicit intention of uncovering the significant lessons learned as well as strategic insights that possess the potential to effectively inform and guide the university’s initiatives geared toward sustainable development. Moreover, the overarching goal of this study is to articulate and present a model that can be easily replicated by other academic institutions that are earnestly striving to bolster their sustainability efforts, thereby ensuring alignment with the rigorous benchmarks that have been established by the UI GreenMetric, which serves as a critical framework in this domain.

2. Materials and Methods

2.1. Research Area

Mahasarakham University (MSU), located on the Khamriang Campus in the Kantarawichai District, is situated approximately seven kilometers from its original campus location. Currently, it boasts an impressive academic structure that includes 17 faculties, 2 colleges, and 1 school that are actively operating to provide education and research opportunities. In the realm of higher education in Thailand, MSU has garnered significant acclaim and recognition as one of the nation’s most rapidly developing universities, which reflects its commitment to academic excellence and growth. The university’s total enrollment figures have experienced a remarkable increase, rising dramatically from fewer than 10,000 students during its formative years to an impressive total that now exceeds 46,000 students, indicative of its expanding reputation and appeal. Within the Khamriang Campus, numerous faculty buildings have been constructed, thereby transforming it into the central hub for both administrative functions and academic pursuits, which highlights the university’s dedication to providing a conducive learning environment. The overall area encompassed by the main campus, known as Khamriang, spans an expansive 1,697,600 square meters, as illustrated in Figure 2, underscoring the significant physical footprint of the institution.

2.2. Methodology

This study employs a mixed-methods research design within the framework of a case study, focusing on an in-depth analysis of Mahasarakham University. Quantitative data were collected from institutional databases, while qualitative data were obtained through interviews and a review of strategic documents. The analysis was guided by the Plan–Do–Check–Act (PDCA) quality management cycle, which enabled a systematic examination of organizational planning, implementation, monitoring, and continuous improvement processes.

2.2.1. Criteria

In 2024, a comprehensive revision of the categories and corresponding point weightings was undertaken with the explicit aim of integrating a series of newly developed questions, which are delineated in

Table 1. The various categories that have been employed in the formulation of the rankings, along with their corresponding weightings expressed as a percentage (%).

No.	Category	Percentage of Total Points (%)
1	Setting and Infrastructure (SI)	15
2	Energy and Climate Change (EC)	21
3	Waste (WS)	18
4	Water (WR)	10
5	Transportation (TR)	18
6	Education and Research (ED)	18
Total		100

and

Table 2. The various indicators and categories that have been proposed for consideration and potential utilization in the establishment of the rankings for 2023.

No.	Criteria	Points
ED1	The ratio of sustainability courses to total courses/subjects	300
ED2	The ratio of sustainability research funding to total research funding	200
ED3	Number of scholarly publications on sustainability	200
ED4	Number of events related to sustainability	200
ED5	Number of student organizations related to sustainability	200
ED6	University-run sustainability website	200
ED7	Sustainability report	100
ED8	Number of cultural activities on campus	100
ED9	Number of university sustainability program(s) with international collaborations	100
ED10	Number of sustainability community service projects organized and/or involving students	100
ED11	Number of sustainability-related startups	100
Total		1800

. The evaluation of each specific indicator exhibits considerable variability, as can be observed in Table 2, which outlines a maximum potential cumulative score of 1800 points. To attain the optimal score for each individual indicator, the evaluation process involves the calculation of either the proportional representation of the indicator over a defined timeframe or the assessment of its absolute value; it is important to note that full marks are granted exclusively when a substantial proportion or significant volume of the indicator is proficiently and effectively managed according to the pre-established criteria.

2.2.2. Scoring

In order to facilitate the comprehensive statistical analysis and processing of the collected data, each individual item was assigned a numerical score that corresponded to specific criteria. The determination of these scores was grounded in straightforward counts of observed occurrences or responses that were evaluated against a clearly defined scale that delineated the parameters for measurement.

2.2.3. Data Sources, Instruments, Validation, and Analysis

In order to obtain robust evidence for each Education and Research (ED) indicator, quantitative data were extracted from four institutional databases: (1) the UI GreenMetric 2024 online questionnaire (six thematic sections; auto-exported to CSV), (2) MSU’s Academic SIS (course catalogs and enrolment records), (3) the Research Management System (grant awards and publication metadata), and (4) the Financial Information System (SDG-linked budget lines). Supplementary counts of student organizations, cultural activities, and community-service projects were provided by the Student Affairs Office. Qualitative evidence was gathered through semi-structured interviews with 12 members of the Green University Development and Environmental Conservation Committee and through a desk review of strategic plans (2021–2024) and the 2023 MSU Sustainability Report. All datasets underwent a three-stage validation protocol: (1) independent double entry of raw values by two research assistants followed by reconciliation (inter-rater agreement: Cohen’s κ = 0.89); (2) committee verification against the 2024 UI GreenMetric guidelines; and (3) methodological triangulation whereby interview themes were cross-checked with documentary evidence to ensure credibility. Instrument reliability for internal surveys yielded Cronbach’s α = 0.81, indicating acceptable consistency. For the quantitative analysis, descriptive statistics (means, proportions, and year-on-year growth rates) were computed in IBM SPSS Statistics Version 29. Scores for each indicator were calculated using Formula (1):

$${Score}_i={\displaystyle \frac{{Observed}_i}{{Benchmark}_i}}\times {Weight}_i$$

(1)

where

• Score_i is the final weighted score for indicator i (units: points);
• Observed_i is the empirically observed value for indicator i (number of sustainability-related courses);
• Benchmark_i is the benchmark or full-score target defined by GreenMetric for indicator i;
• Weight_i is the maximum weight (points) assigned to indicator i in the ED table.

For the qualitative component, interview transcripts were coded in NVivo 14 using a hybrid deductive–inductive approach: primary codes were derived from the Plan–Do–Check–Act (PDCA) phases, while sub-codes emerged from iterative reading of the data. Thematic patterns were then mapped onto UI GreenMetric performance dimensions to enrich the interpretation of the numerical results.

2.3. Educational and Research Operations

The various operations that pertain specifically to the domains of education and research, which are conducted in alignment with the stringent criteria established by the green university ranking system, were executed through the comprehensive framework of the Deming cycle. This framework is characterized by a systematic approach that encompasses four fundamental steps: Plan, Do, Check, and Act, with each step being further elaborated upon in the subsequent sections of this paper [34].

2.3.1. Plan

The initiation of the green university ranking system, which is specifically tailored to enhance the fields of education and research at Mahasarakham University, commenced with the careful and systematic development of comprehensive policies along with strategically formulated plans aimed at the progressive evolution of the university itself. These crafted plans were not only intended to facilitate the university’s growth but were also specifically aligned with the globally recognized Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as well as the essential indicators utilized in key global university rankings, thereby ensuring that the university’s objectives resonate with international standards and expectations [35,36].

In addition to the previously mentioned initiatives, it is noteworthy to highlight that the university formulated comprehensive annual operational plans, which were designed to adhere not only to the established criteria for evaluating green university rankings but also to encompass the multifaceted dimensions of both education and research. In conjunction with these plans, performance indicators were systematically established, ensuring that they were firmly rooted in the foundational objectives of the plans, and a series of in-depth analyses were subsequently conducted to ascertain a precise alignment with the rigorous evaluation criteria that pertain specifically to the realms of education and research.

This thorough and systematic alignment analysis provided an essential conceptual framework that served to guide and inform a wide array of activities that are intrinsically related to the pursuit of green university rankings. To further enhance the effectiveness of this framework, specific targets were established for each performance indicator, closely aligned with the scoring criteria that govern the assessment process, and consequently, detailed and strategic plans for the meticulous collection of statistical data were formulated. Following this preparatory phase, the gathered data was thoroughly analyzed in strict adherence to the previously delineated criteria and subsequently summarized and systematically integrated into a cohesive format, as illustrated in Figure 3.

2.3.2. Do

Mahasarakham University has been diligently and proactively engaged in the implementation of a myriad of initiatives that are intricately related to the enhancement of green university rankings within the domains of both education and research, wherein the university’s administration, which prominently includes the president along with senior faculty members, occupies a pivotal and indispensable role in propelling these concerted efforts in a manner that is clearly aligned with the overarching development policies that guide the institution. This significant involvement not only includes but also extends to the meticulous establishment of performance indicators that are purposefully designed to correspond with the operational plans that are closely tied to the various activities associated with the green university ranking initiatives. Furthermore, the various faculties and departments that constitute the university engage in collaborative efforts to successfully achieve the objectives that have been explicitly defined within these operational plans.

As a direct consequence of these extensive and multifaceted collaborative efforts undertaken by various stakeholders within the institution, the university has successfully attained a number of significant milestones that pertain to a wide array of criteria associated with green university rankings, which are increasingly being recognized as vital indicators of institutional commitment to sustainability. These notable accomplishments encompass a diverse range of initiatives, including but not limited to the formulation and implementation of innovative sustainable curricula that integrate principles of environmental stewardship, the successful acquisition of research funding from a multitude of diverse and reputable sources, the widespread dissemination of scholarly publications that focus on sustainability issues, the organization and execution of numerous sustainability-centered activities orchestrated by student organizations and clubs, and the strategic implementation of arts and cultural projects that are thematically aligned with sustainability objectives. Furthermore, Mahasarakham University has actively engaged in and contributed to a variety of international sustainability initiatives, thereby enhancing its global footprint in the realm of sustainable development. Collectively, these remarkable achievements stand as a robust testament to the concerted and collaborative endeavors of faculty members, administrative staff, and students across all faculties and departments, all of whom are committed to ensuring that the activities undertaken by the university are in full alignment with the established evaluation criteria for both education and research, thus effectively meeting the specified and ambitious goals set forth by the institution.

2.3.3. Check

The institution engages in a comprehensive evaluation of the efficacy and impact of its educational and research endeavors on an annual basis, facilitating a series of organized meetings that are specifically designed to thoroughly assess the extent of progress made in relation to the predefined objectives that have been established. This intricate review process necessitates a detailed analysis of the advancements that have been achieved in pursuit of the goals delineated within the operational plans that guide the university’s strategic direction. The Green University Development and Environmental Conservation Committee, which comprises a diverse group of university administrators alongside representatives from various academic and administrative departments, plays a pivotal role in overseeing the continuous monitoring and substantive progress toward the attainment of these significant environmental and developmental objectives.

Moreover, it is imperative to acknowledge that both the Buildings and Facilities Management Office and the Green University Ranking Operations Committee assume an essential and indispensable role in the tracking and progressive advancement of activities pertaining to green university rankings within the educational landscape. Their concerted efforts serve to guarantee that the subsequent reporting of outcomes related to green university rankings, which encompass both educational and research dimensions, is aligned with the established criteria, thereby upholding the principles of accuracy, completeness, and a comprehensive representation of all relevant indicators within the field. This methodical and systematic approach to monitoring ensures that the precision and integrity of data entry into the evaluation system are rigorously maintained for the purpose of a thorough assessment and evaluation.

2.3.4. Action

Based on the comprehensive evaluations that were conducted, the Green University Development and Environmental Conservation Committee put forth a series of well-considered recommendations for necessary adjustments to the existing operational procedures that govern the institution’s environmental initiatives. This esteemed committee undertakes a thorough review of the performance outcomes that pertain to the green university rankings in both educational and research domains from the preceding academic year, engaging in a detailed analysis of the progress made while simultaneously identifying specific areas in which the predetermined goals were not fully realized or achieved to the desired extent.

In addition to the aforementioned points, it is imperative to note that the committee tasked with the crucial responsibility of overseeing both educational initiatives and research operations undertakes a thorough and comprehensive annual review of the evaluation criteria that have been distinctly outlined in the Green University Ranking Assessment Handbook for each specific indicator. This systematic process guarantees that the reporting mechanisms as well as the evaluation of various activities are not only accurate and precise but also encompass a comprehensive scope, thereby ensuring that they effectively align with and meet the established assessment criteria in a satisfactory manner. The implementation of such strategic adjustments serves to refine, enhance, and elevate the university’s methodology and overall approach toward successfully achieving its sustainability objectives in a more effective and impactful manner.

2.4. Data Preparation for Submission to the Designated System

2.4.1. Data Preparation

To support and enhance the credibility of the green university ranking system, specifically focused on the domains of education and research, a carefully organized and extensive data collection initiative was undertaken for the academic year of 2024, which aimed to gather a wide array of relevant information. This elaborate process encompassed the systematic compilation and aggregation of detailed information about the various courses offered by the university, the significant amounts of research funding that have been allocated for the purpose of institutional development, and the diverse range of activities and initiatives directly related to the principles of sustainability that the institution has committed to. Furthermore, it is noteworthy that faculty members and departmental personnel across all levels of the institution actively and enthusiastically engaged in these data collection efforts, thereby propelling the initiative forward with an impressive degree of dedication and commitment to the overarching goals set forth.

Additionally, the active participation and engagement of students played a crucial and indispensable role in this process, especially those who were deeply involved in research endeavors that were directly associated with the evaluation and ranking of universities based on their commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship within the domains of education and research. These students significantly contributed by analyzing comprehensive datasets corresponding to each specific indicator of sustainability, diligently preparing detailed reports that highlighted the various sustainability-related activities undertaken by the institution, and collaboratively conducting thorough assessments of their collective progress to ensure that all actions and initiatives were in strict alignment with the established criteria for green university rankings. This collaborative and integrative approach was designed and implemented with the intention of effectively achieving the ambitious goals that had been set forth by the institution in pursuit of sustainability excellence.

2.4.2. Integration of Data Submission Systems

Mahasarakham University submitted the requisite data related to the green university rankings into the designated official ranking system before the stipulated deadline of 31 October 2024, as depicted in Figure 4. This undertaking necessitated the precise documentation of operational data, accompanied by corroborative materials to substantiate the performance metrics corresponding to each criterion, following the established standards for the green university rankings.

3. Results and Discussion

Since 2011, Mahasarakham University has engaged actively and proactively in the realm of global university rankings, consistently demonstrating a commendable level of performance under the specific criteria that have been established by the comprehensive green university ranking system. In 2015, the UI GreenMetric, which serves as a prominent framework for assessing universities’ commitment to sustainability, introduced a series of revised and more refined evaluation criteria that are systematically organized into six fundamental aspects, each of which plays a critical role in determining the overall sustainability performance of participating institutions. The educational and research performance of Mahasarakham University, when assessed under these newly established criteria, has shown a remarkable alignment with the university’s overarching sustainable development strategies, highlighting the institution’s commitment to fostering an educational environment that prioritizes ecological responsibility. To effectively achieve its sustainability objectives and goals, the university has established a set of performance indicators that are incorporated within its annual operational plans, thereby strategically executing a variety of activities while judiciously allocating the necessary budgets to support these initiatives. A comprehensive summary of these multifaceted efforts and initiatives is presented in

Table 3. Key Performance Indicators (a subset) derived from the operational framework of Mahasarakham University demonstrate alignment with sustainability initiatives.

Strategies	Indicators	Results/Year				Activity Budget for 2024
		2021	2022	2023	2024
1: Produce Graduates Meeting Global Demands	1.1 Number of New Paradigm Courses or Sandbox Courses or International Collaboration Courses	-	-	13	63	THB 10 million
	1.2 Number of International Courses	7	7	1	3
2: Foster Research and Innovation for International Excellence	2.1 Amount of Funding from External Sources	97.92	697	130	156	THB 32 million
	2.2 Number of Research Projects Funded by Foreign Sources (THB million)	17	12	34	12
	2.3 Number of Research Outputs Published in International Databases (Scopus)	513	659	668	682
	2.4 Number of Innovations or Research Outputs Derived from Research	21	20	41	40
	2.5 Number of Internationally Collaborative Articles	178	96	126	184
3: Provide Academic Services to Meet Industry and Community Needs	3.1 Number of Research, Innovation, or Technology Projects Transferred to Industry/Society	15	27	20	32	THB 1.2 million
	3.2 Number of Communities and Societies Served with Academic Services Resulting in Strengthening and Self-reliance	44	6	71	94
	3.3 Number of Research, Innovation, or Technology Projects Transferred to Communities and Societies through Academic Services	44	6	55	76
4: Enhance Isaan Cultural Excellence at the International Level	4.1 Number of Internationally Outstanding Cultural Works Created	5	7	11	20	THB 1.6 million
	4.2 Number of Collaborative Cultural Work Activities in the Mekong River Basin and China	4	6	7	16
	4.3 Number of Cultural Works Adding Value/Significance	5	7	10	13
5: Manage the Organization for University Excellence	5.1 Number of Digital Technology Innovations	-	1	1	1	THB 3.1 million
	5.2 UI GreenMetric Assessment Scores	7575	8200	8335	8475

, which encapsulates the various dimensions of the university’s commitment to sustainability.

Analysis of Key Performance Indicators

Strategy 1: Producing Graduates Meeting Global Demands.

Mahasarakham University has undertaken substantial initiatives aimed at the augmentation of its academic course offerings, thereby significantly broadening the scope of educational opportunities available to its students. In 2023, the institution introduced a total of 13 innovative courses, which were categorized as paradigm shifts, sandbox-based learning experiences, or collaborative international programs, and this impressive figure experienced a remarkable escalation to an astonishing total of 63 distinct courses by 2024, all of which were facilitated by a dedicated financial allocation amounting to THB 10 million. Nevertheless, it is noteworthy to observe that the quantity of international courses exhibited a degree of variability, experiencing a decline from a consistent count of seven courses in both 2021 and 2022 to a mere one course in 2023, before recovering to a total of three international courses in 2024.

Strategy 2: Fostering Research and Innovation for International Excellence.

In 2022, external funding achieved an unprecedented zenith, reaching a remarkable total of THB 697 million, which unequivocally reflects the substantial and pivotal investment made in various research initiatives that are critical to advancing knowledge in numerous fields. Even though there was a marginal decline the following year, falling to THB 130 million, funding experienced a resurgence in 2024, rising to a commendable amount of THB 156 million. Furthermore, the amount of research that was published in journals indexed by Scopus demonstrated a consistent and steady increase, ultimately culminating in an impressive total of 682 publications by 2024, signifying a robust contribution to the academic community. In a similar vein, the number of internationally collaborative articles saw a significant surge, escalating from 126 in 2023 to an impressive total of 184 in 2024, thereby providing compelling evidence of the university’s growing global research impact and its commitment to fostering international academic partnerships.

Strategy 3: Providing Academic Services to Meet Industry and Community Needs.

The quantity of various community engagement initiatives and academic service projects experienced a significant and notable increase, especially in relation to the number of distinct communities that were the beneficiaries of these initiatives, which saw a remarkable rise from a mere six communities in 2022 to an impressive total of ninety-four by 2024, a transformation that was made possible through the allocation of a substantial budget totaling THB 1.2 million. In a similar vein, the total count of technology transfer projects aimed at fostering development within communities also exhibited a marked increase, rising from fifty-five such projects in 2023 to seventy-six in 2024, further emphasizing the commitment to community advancement through innovative technological solutions.

Strategy 4: Enhancing Isaan Cultural Excellence.

Cultural endeavors have witnessed a remarkable and sustained expansion, as evidenced by the creation of 20 culturally significant works that have garnered international acclaim, alongside the documentation of 16 collaborative cultural initiatives that took place within the geographical confines of the Mekong River Basin and China during 2024. The financial backing for these ambitious undertakings amounted to a substantial budget totaling THB 1.6 million, which serves to underscore the university’s dedication to the preservation, enhancement, and promotion of the rich and diverse Isaan cultural heritage.

Strategy 5: Managing the Organization for University Excellence.

The score achieved by the university on the UI GreenMetric assessment demonstrated a remarkable and consistent upward trajectory over a span of four years, exhibiting an increase from a baseline figure of 7575 in 2021 to an impressive total of 8475 by 2024, which serves as a testament to the institution’s commitment to enhancing and refining its sustainability initiatives and practices.

The performance indicators of Mahasarakham University clearly illustrate a profound commitment to the principles of sustainability, the pursuit of excellence in research, active engagement with the surrounding community, and the diligent preservation of cultural heritage. Through the strategic and meticulous allocation of financial resources and budgetary provisions, the university has been able to facilitate substantial advancements across a myriad of domains, thereby reinforcing its esteemed position as a vanguard in the realm of sustainable education and comprehensive development. These concerted efforts are fundamentally essential to the realization of the university’s long-term aspiration of attaining global recognition as a reputable institution.

The results and implications of the extensive endeavors undertaken by Mahasarakham University in both education and research, which have been evaluated under the specific criteria established by the green university ranking system, are comprehensively encapsulated in the subsequent summary:

• Total Number of Sustainable Curriculum Offerings.

In the context of its overarching mission and objectives, Mahasarakham University has consistently and diligently aligned its operational practices with the strategic plans formulated on an annual basis, which places significant emphasis on the comprehensive development of graduates who are well-equipped to meet the increasingly complex and diverse needs of global society. This strategic alignment is particularly relevant to the third green university ranking criterion, which evaluates the ratio of sustainable curriculum offerings in relation to the overall total number of academic programs available at the institution. An insightful representation of the university’s performance in this regard over the past four years is effectively illustrated in Figure 5.

From the analysis presented in Figure 5, it becomes abundantly clear that Mahasarakham University has demonstrated a remarkable and consistent trajectory of expansion in its portfolio of sustainable educational programs, which reflects a significant commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility. Over the period spanning from 2021 to 2024, the university has been engaged in a proactive and systematic endeavor to develop and enhance its academic curriculum, rigorously adhering to established quality assurance standards that ensure the educational experience meets both the national and international benchmarks of excellence. In 2021, the university proudly offered a total of 91 distinct academic programs, of which a substantial 49 were specifically categorized as sustainable, thereby signifying a strong emphasis on responsible and eco-friendly education. By 2024, the total number of academic programs offered by the university had increased, reaching a notable figure of 94, with an impressive 58 of these programs being classified as sustainable, thereby marking the highest number of sustainable programs ever recorded in the institution’s history. This notable growth in program offerings is a clear reflection of the university’s unwavering dedication to the strategic alignment of its curricula with comprehensive operational plans, which include the introduction of innovative new programs, the implementation of sandbox programs designed for experimental learning, and the establishment of fruitful international collaborations, all of which collectively serve to enhance the institution’s capacity to deliver an educational experience that is competitive on a global scale.

In stark contrast to other institutions, Mahasarakham University functions within the parameters of a comparatively constrained financial budget, which significantly impacts its capacity to effectively develop and implement new and sustainable academic programs that are essential for contemporary educational demands. This particular constraint, although noteworthy and impactful, serves to underscore the university’s commitment to the pursuit and attainment of sustainable development goals through strategic curriculum planning and incremental enhancements to its educational offerings, all of which are pursued despite the prevailing financial limitations that the institution faces.

2.

Research Financing Associated with Sustainable Research Initiatives.

Mahasarakham University has placed significant emphasis on the cultivation of research and innovation as a fundamental priority in its pursuit of achieving international standards of excellence within the higher education landscape. The strategic initiatives undertaken by the university are designed to enhance the competencies and capabilities of its researchers while simultaneously improving the overarching research infrastructure, thereby positioning itself as a distinguished research institution that is recognized on a global scale. This ambitious objective is systematically pursued through the establishment of well-defined key performance indicators that are intricately aligned with the annual operational plan, which, in turn, adheres to the sustainable research funding criteria that have been outlined by the Green University assessment framework. The funding allocated to the university’s research endeavors is comprehensive, encompassing not only the internal resources that have been specifically designated to support researchers in the advancement of their scholarly work but also including a significant portion of external funding that is critical for sustaining innovative research initiatives. The performance metrics and outcomes achieved over the past four years are illustrated in Figure 6, which provides a visual representation of the university’s research activities and accomplishments during this period.

As illustrated in Figure 6, the ratio of funding allocated specifically for sustainable research in comparison to overall research funding between 2021 and 2024 serves to highlight Mahasarakham University’s unwavering dedication to the enhancement of research endeavors and the promotion of innovative practices within the academic sphere [37,38]. The institution has garnered consistent and robust support from a variety of internal financial resources in conjunction with external funding sources, which collectively exemplifies its concerted efforts aimed at promoting the initiatives associated with sustainable research development.

In 2021, the university encountered a significant decline in its research funding, which amounted to a total of USD 1,255,088, the lowest figure recorded in its history. This unfortunate situation can be primarily attributed to the various constraints that were imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, a global crisis that not only disrupted established research funding streams but also severely limited the availability of grants and other financial resources that are crucial for sustaining academic research. Despite these formidable challenges, the university demonstrated strategic foresight by effectively employing its existing resources in a manner that allowed it to continue essential research operations without significant interruption.

By 2022, Mahasarakham University distinguished itself by attaining an unprecedented level of research funding during this specific timeframe, which reached an impressive total of USD 18,555,100. This remarkable escalation in financial support can largely be attributed to the considerable backing provided by governmental initiatives that were specifically designed to invigorate local economies at the grassroots level while simultaneously fortifying communities within the agricultural sector, which notably included collaborative efforts with various state-owned enterprises. The considerable increase in funding not only underscores the university’s adeptness in aligning its research objectives with the overarching national priorities but also illustrates its capacity to secure highly competitive financial resources for projects that are poised to make a significant impact.

In 2023, a comprehensive analysis of research funding revealed a modest downward trend when juxtaposed against the fiscal allocations of the previous year, a phenomenon that can be attributed to the recalibration of financial resources by governmental entities and institutional bodies as the broader economy endeavored to navigate its way out of the ramifications of the global pandemic. Nevertheless, it is noteworthy that the university sustained a vigorous and unwavering commitment to the advancement of sustainability-centric research initiatives, placing a pronounced emphasis on the dual pillars of quality and innovative methodologies in the pursuit of impactful scientific inquiry.

By 2024, Mahasarakham University remained steadfast in its commitment to exhibiting a remarkable degree of consistency in the acquisition of financial resources dedicated to the advancement of sustainability research initiatives, thereby reinforcing its reputation in this vital academic field. Although the aggregate amount of funding received was still recorded to be below the peak levels observed in 2022, it nonetheless displayed a notable upward trajectory when compared to the fiscal year of 2021, thus serving as a compelling testament to the university’s unwavering resilience and strategic prioritization of sustainability within the framework of its research endeavors.

When conducting a comprehensive analysis of the allocation of funding across the span of four academic years, it becomes abundantly clear that the university has adeptly and strategically leveraged its financial and material resources in a manner that is designed to bolster and promote impactful research projects, even in the face of fluctuations in available funding levels. The consistent and deliberate allocation of resources specifically directed toward sustainability research highlights and reinforces Mahasarakham University’s unwavering commitment to proactively addressing pressing global challenges through the pursuit of innovative, transformative, and meaningful contributions to the realm of academic research.

This particular progression significantly underscores the university’s intricate adaptive strategies and remarkable resilience in the endeavor of fostering sustainable research initiatives, even when faced with the multifaceted constraints imposed by both economic factors and various external influences that are beyond its control. The capacity of Mahasarakham University to skillfully navigate through these myriad challenges not only guarantees its continued enhancement of contributions to the field of sustainability research but also serves to solidify its esteemed position as a pivotal and influential player within the ever-evolving landscape of global academia.

3.

Number of Sustainable Publications.

Mahasarakham University, in its dedicated pursuit of academic excellence, has established a comprehensive set of performance indicators that are intricately woven into its annual operational plan, with a particular emphasis placed on the production of high-quality research and innovative advancements that are not only groundbreaking but widely recognized and esteemed on an international scale by scholars and practitioners alike. This unwavering commitment to academic rigor and innovation seamlessly aligns with the overarching goal of the university, which is to elevate its status and reputation to that of a global leading research institution that contributes significantly across various disciplines. The tangible results of these concerted efforts are strikingly evident in the substantial number of research publications between 2021 and 2024 that delve into the critical domain of sustainability.

Table 4. Quantitative analysis of scholarly publications about sustainability from 2021 to 2024.

Publication Topic	2021	2022	2023	2024
Publication related to “Green”	87	120	136	132
Publication related to “Sustainability”	45	81	96	123
Publication related to “Environment”	127	190	226	228
Publication related to “Renewable Energy”	24	34	49	60
Publication related to “Climate Change”	41	29	28	31
Total number of publications	324	454	535	574

presents a comprehensive analysis of the incremental trajectory observed in the quantity of scholarly research publications that are pertinent to the domain of sustainability, spanning the years from 2021 to 2024, cataloged on the widely utilized academic repository known as the Google Scholar platform. The consistent escalation in the number of published works serves as a clear reflection of the university’s strategic alignment with its established operational plan, as well as its steadfast commitment to the advancement and proliferation of research focused specifically on sustainability initiatives.

In 2021, the number of scholarly publications reached a total of 324, characterized by significant contributions across various categories, notably “Environment”, which accounted for an impressive 127 publications, and “Green”, which comprised a substantial 87 publications. Although it is important to note that this particular total represents the lowest amount recorded over the four years, it is essential to recognize that these figures serve as a crucial foundation upon which future growth and advancements can be established.

By 2022, Mahasarakham University had notably accomplished a remarkable and substantial enhancement in the quantity of academic publications produced, culminating in a grand total of 454 diverse publications. This notable growth trajectory was primarily propelled by a pronounced increase in publications within the field of “Environment”, which ascended to an impressive figure of 190, representing a significant rise from the previous year’s total of 127 publications, as well as the realm of “Sustainability”, where the number of publications almost doubled, soaring from a total of 45 in 2021 to an impressive 81 in 2022. The university’s remarkable capacity to rebound from the numerous and daunting challenges that arose as a direct consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic is palpably evidenced by this substantial and noteworthy improvement in publication output [39,40].

The trajectory of academic publications exhibited a consistent upward trend throughout 2023, culminating in an impressive total number of 535 publications. Among the noteworthy highlights of this year’s publication statistics were significant increases observed in key categories, particularly “Green”, which accounted for 136 publications, marking a rise from the previous year’s total of 120 publications, as well as “Renewable Energy”, which saw a total of 49 publications compared to the 34 recorded in 2022. Furthermore, the university demonstrated its capacity to sustain robust scholarly outputs in the vital fields of “Environment”, which comprised a total of 226 publications, and “Sustainability”, which contributed 96 publications to the overall tally.

In 2024, the cumulative total of scholarly publications experienced a substantial increase, peaking at an impressive figure of 574 during the specified period. This remarkable escalation can be attributed to a pronounced surge in the domain of “Sustainability” publications, which saw an upward trajectory to 123 articles, marking a significant 28% enhancement compared to the previous year, coupled with consistent advancements in the field of “Renewable Energy” research, which accounted for 60 published works, an increase from the 49 publications recorded in the year prior. Conversely, while the category of “Environment” publications exhibited only a slight increase to a total of 228 contributions, it is noteworthy that this particular category has consistently remained the most prominent and influential contributor across all years within the examined timeframe.

Despite the presence of various fluctuations within the specific categories that may impact research outputs, Mahasarakham University has consistently prioritized the pursuit of impactful and high-quality research endeavors that are intrinsically related to sustainability, thereby demonstrating remarkable resilience and adaptability in navigating the numerous challenges posed by budgetary constraints that arose during the unprecedented global pandemic. The university’s focused emphasis on critical categories such as “Renewable Energy” and “Sustainability” serves to underscore its steadfast commitment to addressing pressing global challenges while at the same time advancing academic discourse in a manner that is in perfect alignment with its overarching strategic objectives.

The findings presented in this study serve to underscore Mahasarakham University’s unwavering commitment toward the advancement and elevation of its research profile, while simultaneously making substantial and impactful contributions to the broader discourse surrounding sustainability scholarship on an international level, thereby reinforcing its role in the global academic community.

4.

Number of Sustainable Community Service Initiatives and/or Engaged Students

Mahasarakham University places a strong emphasis on academic services that cater to the needs of both the industry and the community. These initiatives have been designed in alignment with the university’s operational plans to meet the criteria for assessing green universities in education and research. A key aspect of these efforts involves the organization of community service projects that actively engage students in sustainability-focused activities. The outcomes of these initiatives from 2021 to 2024 are shown in

Table 5. Number of sustainable community service initiatives coordinated and/or engaged students.

Projects	2021	2022	2023	2024
Sustainable community service projects	44	6	71	51

.

Table 5 serves to illuminate and underscore the quantitative metrics of the multitude of sustainable community service projects that have been organized and/or engaged with by students throughout the preceding four academic years, which is in direct alignment with the strategic objectives delineated in Strategy 3 of the university’s comprehensive operational plans. This particular strategy is fundamentally centered around the provision of academic services that are specifically designed to effectively and adequately address the multifaceted needs and requirements of both the industrial sector and the broader societal framework. The data presented in the table elucidates the presence of pronounced and significant variations across the different years, thereby reflecting dynamic shifts in both priorities and the allocation of resources dedicated to these essential initiatives.

In 2021, the university documented an impressive total of 44 sustainable community service initiatives, which serves as a clear testament to the robust and commendable initial endeavor aimed at fostering meaningful engagement and collaboration with various local communities. Nevertheless, it is important to note that this commendable figure experienced a dramatic decline in the subsequent year of 2022, plummeting to a mere six projects, a change that can be attributed to the numerous constraints and limitations that were imposed by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, an unprecedented global health crisis that significantly disrupted community engagement activities and severely restricted the operational capacities of organizations involved in such initiatives.

By 2023, Mahasarakham University experienced an extraordinary revival in its dedicated endeavors, culminating in the remarkable achievement of executing the highest number of projects throughout the four-year period, with an impressive total of 71 sustainable community service initiatives underscoring the institution’s commitment to societal betterment. This notable increase in activity illustrates the university’s adept adaptive strategies and its significantly heightened financial commitment toward community service ventures, which form an integral part of its comprehensive recovery and expansion agenda in the aftermath of the global pandemic.

In 2024, the university demonstrated its dedication to the aforementioned initiatives by successfully implementing a total of 51 distinct projects, which despite being marginally lower in number compared to the preceding year, nonetheless illustrates a consistent and steadfast focus on sustainability, which is fundamentally driven by a profound engagement with the surrounding community. The remarkable stability in the elevated quantity of projects undertaken during both 2023 and 2024 can be primarily attributed to a combination of several critical factors, including but not limited to significantly enhanced budgetary allocations, careful strategic planning, and a reinforced commitment to ensuring that the delivery of academic services is fastidiously aligned with the university’s green evaluation criteria.

The analysis of the collected data emphatically highlights the increasingly significant influence that Mahasarakham University exerts on the enhancement of societal well-being and the promotion of sustainable development through its various carefully designed and implemented academic service initiatives. These multifaceted efforts not only satisfactorily meet the established criteria for assessments aimed at evaluating green university initiatives but also simultaneously create substantial and meaningful opportunities for students to engage actively and participate in a diverse array of projects that directly tackle the pressing real-world sustainability challenges that societies face today. This ongoing and steadfast commitment elucidates the university’s crucial and indispensable role in nurturing community engagement, while also championing the cause of sustainable development at both local and regional scales, thereby contributing to the broader movement toward a more sustainable future.

5.

Conclusion on Mahasarakham University’s Global Ranking Performance

As illustrated in Figure 7, Mahasarakham University has exhibited a remarkably commendable upward trajectory in its global ranking since the commencement of its participation in the esteemed UI GreenMetric World University Rankings, which first began in 2011. In 2023, the institution remarkably achieved its best rank of 102nd globally, a development that reflects substantial advancements in sustainability-oriented initiatives that span across various domains, including education, research, and operational practices. This positive momentum not only persisted but gained further traction in 2024, culminating in an enhanced ranking of 100th on a global scale, signifying a significant milestone in the university’s unwavering commitment to the pursuit of excellence in sustainability. The consistent enhancement in these rankings serves to underscore Mahasarakham University’s strategic endeavors to align its operational practices with broader global sustainability objectives, despite the myriad challenges and intensifying competition that pervade the higher education landscape. This notable accomplishment accentuates the institution’s steadfast dedication to promoting sustainable development, thereby positioning it as a preeminent university within both national and international contexts.

The upward trend in MSU’s UI GreenMetric ranking can be traced to three mutually reinforcing enablers—targeted SDG-aligned budgeting, PDCA-driven governance, and cross-faculty collaboration—that together form a resource–performance spiral. The sandbox funding of THB 10 M in 2024 triggered a 385 % expansion in innovative courses and improved graduate employability, while the THB 697 M peak in external research grants (2022) increased both Scopus outputs by 33 % and the number internationally co-authored papers by 55 % (2023–2024). Practically, phased SDG budgeting supported internal buy-in and shielded the institution from financial shocks; embedding undergraduates in community projects (projects: 6 → 94) expedited post-pandemic outreach recovery; and leveraging Isaan cultural heritage quadrupled the amount of internationally recognized cultural works, illustrating how regional identity can catalyze SDG engagement. Theoretically, the case extends the Higher-Education Triple Bottom Line by showing that PDCA cycles mediate the link between strategic intent and metric performance, while local cultural context moderates the institutional-isomorphism effect predicted under ranking pressure.

In addition to examining Mahasarakham University’s outcomes, comparative analysis with other institutional case studies provides a deeper contextual understanding of sustainability integration. For instance, El Bosque University in Colombia demonstrated that embedding SDGs into student programs and curricula significantly influenced pro-environmental behavior [9]. The German Jordanian University, by contrast, emphasized technical infrastructure improvements and waste auditing [23]. In Thailand, Mahidol University has demonstrated leadership in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals by developing a systemic framework covering four key domains: education, research, community engagement, and campus operations. The university employs structured monitoring mechanisms to track progress toward each goal [41]. Meanwhile, Chulalongkorn University has focused explicitly on SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), fostering interdisciplinary initiatives in agri-food systems through curriculum development and research collaborations that promote sustainable food security in local communities [42]. While both institutions show policy-level and structural progress, they have not yet integrated local cultural identity or community heritage as core strategies in their sustainability practices to the same extent as Mahasarakham University.

Theoretically, MSU’s case positions the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle not merely as a quality assurance method but as a governance infrastructure that connects strategic policy with operational implementation. This reframes the Higher Education Triple Bottom Line (HE-TBL) to include internal governance dynamics [7,12]. Additionally, MSU’s use of regional cultural identity—such as Isaan arts and traditions—as a sustainability asset serves as a moderating factor that counters the homogenizing pressures of global ranking systems, thereby enabling a more contextualized and pluralistic sustainability model [4].

4. Conclusions

Mahasarakham University has formulated a set of ambitious and forward-looking objectives that are specifically designed to significantly enhance its overall performance and standing within the increasingly competitive landscape of green university rankings. Among the most critical elements that contribute to the successful realization of these high-reaching goals is the proactive implementation of a comprehensive and sustainable university policy, which has been strategically developed and endorsed by the university management. This particular policy acts as a pivotal foundation upon which various operational plans are built, facilitates sustainable budget allocations, dictates the scope of project activities, and fosters the active engagement and collaboration of both staff members and students through a multitude of specialized committees. For example, the committees that have been specifically assigned the responsibility of spearheading initiatives related to green university rankings are deeply involved in the intricate process of defining the specific evaluation criteria, promoting and encouraging robust student participation in relevant research endeavors, collaborating closely with student organizations to advance sustainability projects and orchestrating effective advocacy campaigns aimed at raising awareness and driving action. Furthermore, a structured and robust quality assurance framework has been put in place to ensure that projects are effectively planned, goals are appropriately set, key performance indicators are diligently monitored, and both successes and potential areas for improvement are systematically and comprehensively evaluated. This iterative and dynamic process not only facilitates ongoing adjustments to operational practices but also actively drives continuous development and progressive advancement toward the ultimate achievement of the university’s established green ranking objectives.

The unyielding and consistent progress made by the university in the realms of education and research, particularly with its standing in the increasingly competitive green university rankings, can be attributed directly to the implementation of its all-encompassing and crafted sustainability policy, which serves as a guiding framework for various initiatives. This comprehensive policy not only incorporates a wide array of activities but is also intricately aligned with the university’s overarching strategic plans aimed at fostering sustainability across all dimensions of its operations. Specifically, Mahasarakham University proudly offers an impressive total of 58 courses that are singularly focused on sustainability issues out of a grand total of 94 academic programs, thereby demonstrating its commitment to integrating sustainability into its educational offerings. In addition to this, the university has made substantial and adequate budget allocations for initiatives related to sustainability, which have significantly bolstered its capabilities in both research and innovation, culminating in a notable production of 55 research outputs that directly contribute to the advancement of sustainability efforts. The establishment of dedicated research centers has not only facilitated collaborative efforts with local communities but has also created invaluable and meaningful learning opportunities for students, thus enriching their educational experience. Collectively, these remarkable achievements serve to highlight the considerable contributions made by the university’s staff and the successful integration of sustainability principles into both educational and research frameworks, ultimately reinforcing the university’s notable success in its green initiatives.

Furthermore, it is imperative to acknowledge that Mahasarakham University is steadfastly dedicated to the ongoing enhancement and refinement of its operational methodologies, with the primary objective of aligning with the continuously evolving and increasingly stringent criteria established for the assessments pertaining to green university rankings. This intricate process necessitates a thorough and systematic analysis of historical performance metrics, identifying and delineating specific areas in which established objectives have not been fully actualized, and strategically implementing necessary adjustments aimed at optimizing the processes involved in data collection, comprehensive analysis, and rigorous verification. The various committees that are tasked with overseeing and managing different dimensions of the green ranking assessment are instrumental in upholding the integrity of the data, ensuring its accuracy, completeness, and adherence to the established standards that govern such evaluations. By proactively addressing these multifaceted challenges and nurturing true progress within its operational framework, Mahasarakham University is exceptionally well-positioned to realize its ambitious objectives and to champion the cause of genuine, sustainable development across all dimensions of its institutional operations.

Transferable knowledge, limitations, and future lines of research: Other mid-sized universities can replicate MSU’s approach by (1) embedding phased SDG budgeting into annual planning cycles, (2) institutionalizing PDCA governance at faculty and department levels, and (3) leveraging regional cultural assets to differentiate sustainability initiatives. Nonetheless, the present study relies primarily on self-reported institutional data and lacks disaggregated datasets from comparator universities, limiting cross-sectional robustness. Causal inferences regarding specific policy interventions therefore remain tentative in the absence of quasi-experimental designs. Future work should pursue multi-framework benchmarking (e.g., THE Impact, QS Sustainability) to validate MSU’s performance across ranking schemas, undertake mixed-method investigations of staff and student perceptions of PDCA-driven changes, and examine the longitudinal effects of sandbox-course funding on graduate outcomes via difference-in-differences or similar causal-inference approaches.