As the world observes Human Rights Day, there is no better time to reflect on the powerful link between human rights and sustainable development.
Dr. Orlando Odejide, the Founder and Proprietor of Transformation College of Business and Technology (TCBT) and Managing Director of A4S Limited (A4Sonline), underscores the crucial role of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in advancing human rights globally, particularly in Africa.
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and human rights are intrinsically linked, with each goal playing a key role in upholding basic rights and fostering societal growth:
- SDG 1 (No Poverty): Aims to eradicate poverty by ensuring economic security and reducing inequality.
- SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being): Focuses on providing universal access to essential healthcare services.
- SDG 4 (Quality Education): Upholds the right to education and access to knowledge.
- SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions): Protects civil liberties and promotes accountability and transparency in governance.
For Africa, the stakes are high. The continent faces ongoing challenges, including widespread poverty, gender inequality, limited access to education, and fragile institutions, all of which undermine human rights. However, Dr. Odejide believes that by prioritizing SDG implementation, these barriers can be transformed into opportunities for social and economic empowerment, fostering a future where human rights are universally protected.
At A4Sonline, the company is leading efforts to integrate governance, performance, and accountability frameworks into SDG strategies. By leveraging global standards such as:
- SDG (ISO 53001)
- Corporate Social Responsibility (ISO 26000)
- Environment, Social, and Governance (ISO WG/ESG)
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Reports
These frameworks provide essential tools for governments and organizations to embed principles of governance, equity, and environmental responsibility into their operations. By doing so, they can ensure the preservation and advancement of human rights across all sectors of society.
On this Human Rights Day, Dr. Odejide calls for a renewed commitment to SDGs as the foundation of sustainable growth in Africa. Achieving these goals is crucial to ensuring that human rights are fully realized, equity is prioritized, and dignity is preserved for all.
As the world moves forward, it is essential to recognize that SDGs are not just global targets—they are a universal call to action, demanding global collaboration to empower communities, promote justice, and create a lasting legacy of transformation for the future.
Dr. Orlando Odejide
Founder & Proprietor, Transformation College of Business and Technology (TCBT)
Managing Director, A4S Limited (A4Sonline)
