Education at the Heart of Sustainability: A Qualitative Exploration of Cultural Pathways to Achieving the SDGs under NEP 2020

Abstract

Education serves a transformative force in sustainable development, particularly in cultural contexts and holistic pedagogical frameworks . This chapter explores the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 of India as a basis for achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with specific importance on SDG-4 (Quality Education) and its interconnections with wider sustainability targets. Through a qualitative approach, this study explores how NEP 2020 integrates indigenous knowledge systems, transformative learning approaches and cultural variability to create contextually appropriate pathways toward sustainability. The analysis reveals that NEP 2020's emphasis on holistic education, value-based learning, multilingualism and community engagement aligns strategically with SDG Target 4.7, which advocates for education that promotes sustainable lifestyles and cultural diversity. This chapter identifies both challenges as resource limitations , capacity building needs, and implementation gaps and opportunities in India's education reform. The findings convey that achieving the SDGs requires educational frameworks that align cultural heritage with critical thinking, systems awareness, and transformative action toward sustainable futures.