Assignment 5 Semester 1 2025
Detailed Solutions, References & Explanations
Unique Number: 825161
Due date: 29 May 2025
SECTION A: ROLE OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN ACHIEVING THE SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT GOALS
1. INTRODUCTION
The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by all United Nations member
states in 2015, provides a comprehensive framework to address global challenges such
as poverty, inequality, climate change, and environmental degradation. Central to this
agenda are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are universally
applicable and aim to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all. These goals
are interconnected and balance the three core dimensions of sustainable development:
economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental protection (United Nations,
2021).
The emergence and expansion of social media have significantly transformed
communication, activism, and public engagement. In the context of the SDGs, platforms
like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube are powerful tools for raising
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Great care has been taken in the preparation of this document; however, the contents are provided "as is" without any express or
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SECTION A: ROLE OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN ACHIEVING THE SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT GOALS
1. INTRODUCTION
The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by all United Nations
member states in 2015, provides a comprehensive framework to address global
challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, and environmental
degradation. Central to this agenda are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs), which are universally applicable and aim to achieve a better and more
sustainable future for all. These goals are interconnected and balance the three
core dimensions of sustainable development: economic growth, social inclusion,
and environmental protection (United Nations, 2021).
The emergence and expansion of social media have significantly transformed
communication, activism, and public engagement. In the context of the SDGs,
platforms like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube are powerful
tools for raising awareness, mobilising communities, and advocating for sustainable
change. This essay will examine three selected SDGs, reflect on personal
motivation, analyse the role of social media, present campaign examples, and
explore the broader impact of digital activism.
2. BACKGROUND ON THREE SELECTED SDGS
2.1 SDG 4: Quality Education
SDG 4 aims to “ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote
lifelong learning opportunities for all” (UNESCO, 2022). Quality education is
essential for breaking the cycle of poverty, promoting gender equality, and
empowering individuals to contribute meaningfully to society. Despite global
progress, many children, especially girls in rural and underdeveloped areas, remain
excluded from formal education. Challenges such as underfunded education
systems, lack of trained teachers, and digital inequality further widen the learning
gap.
2.2 SDG 13: Climate Action
Disclaimer
Great care has been taken in the preparation of this document; however, the contents are provided "as is"
without any express or implied representations or warranties. The author accepts no responsibility or
liability for any actions taken based on the information contained within this document. This document is
intended solely for comparison, research, and reference purposes. Reproduction, resale, or transmission
of any part of this document, in any form or by any means, is strictly prohibited.
, +27 67 171 1739
SDG 13 calls for urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts. The goal
promotes climate resilience, education, and international cooperation on
environmental issues (IPCC, 2023). With increasing global temperatures, extreme
weather events, and biodiversity loss, climate action has become a critical priority.
Addressing this goal requires both systemic change and behavioural shifts, making
public awareness campaigns and youth mobilisation vital tools in climate advocacy.
2.3 SDG 5: Gender Equality
SDG 5 seeks to “achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls” (UN
Women, 2022). Gender-based discrimination continues to hinder access to
education, healthcare, employment, and political participation. In many regions,
issues such as gender-based violence, wage inequality, and child marriage persist.
Promoting gender equality not only upholds human rights but also leads to
healthier, more inclusive societies.
3. MY MOTIVATION ON THE SDGS
My motivation for supporting the SDGs stems from a desire to contribute to a just,
sustainable, and equitable world. Growing up in a diverse yet unequal society, I
have witnessed firsthand how lack of education, environmental neglect, and gender
discrimination limit human potential. Education, in particular, is close to my heart, as
it has provided me with opportunities for personal and professional growth. I believe
that access to quality education should be a universal right, not a privilege.
Similarly, the ongoing climate crisis has heightened my awareness of environmental
responsibilities. Climate change is no longer a distant issue—it affects food
security, water access, and the health of vulnerable communities. Lastly,
advocating for gender equality is essential to dismantle systemic barriers and
ensure that women and girls everywhere can live with dignity and freedom.
The SDGs offer a hopeful, holistic framework that unites people across borders and
sectors. They empower young people, including myself, to be agents of change.
Social media, as a tool I use daily, offers a platform to amplify these values and
inspire action.
Disclaimer
Great care has been taken in the preparation of this document; however, the contents are provided "as is"
without any express or implied representations or warranties. The author accepts no responsibility or
liability for any actions taken based on the information contained within this document. This document is
intended solely for comparison, research, and reference purposes. Reproduction, resale, or transmission
of any part of this document, in any form or by any means, is strictly prohibited.