Sustainable Development Goal 9 (SDG 9): Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure aims to build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and foster innovation. This goal is focused on supporting economic growth, technological advancements, and ensuring equitable access to information and communications technology (ICT), particularly in developing regions.

Key targets of SDG 9 

1. Develop sustainable, resilient, and inclusive infrastructure: Develop quality, reliable, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure, including regional and transborder infrastructure, to support economic development and human well-being.
2. Promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization: Increase the share of industry in employment and GDP in line with national circumstances and significantly raise industrial capacity in the least developed countries.
3. Enhance financial support for small enterprises: Increase access to financial services, including affordable credit, for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), particularly in developing countries.
4. Upgrade infrastructure and industries to be sustainable: Promote resource-use efficiency and greater adoption of clean and environmentally sound technologies and industrial processes.
5. Promote innovation and access to technology: Support domestic technology development, research, and innovation, especially by increasing the number of research and development workers.
6. Improve access to ICT: Increase access to information and communications technology (ICT) and strive to provide universal and affordable access to the internet, especially in least developed countries.
   
   

   Alkafeel University's Contributions Towards SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

   Alkafeel University is dedicated to advancing Sustainable Development Goal 9 (SDG 9): Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. The university has implemented numerous initiatives focusing on building resilient infrastructure, promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and fostering innovation.

   1. State-of-the-Art Infrastructure:

      • Robust Infrastructure and Modern Technology: The university boasts a strong infrastructure equipped with modern technology, cutting-edge laboratories, and fully-equipped educational halls. This provides a conducive environment for research and innovation across its colleges, including Pharmacy, Dentistry, Engineering, Medical and Health Technologies, Law, and Medicine.
        
        
        
        
        
      • Specialized Facilities: Alkafeel University includes specialized facilities such as teaching dental clinics and Alkafeel Hospital, supporting medical education and healthcare services.
        
        
        
        

   2. Sustainable and Resilient Infrastructure:

      • Environmental Design Approach: The university adheres to an environmental design approach that incorporates sustainability criteria pertinent to both the environment and architecture, encouraging the allocation of more areas for greenery and fostering sustainable energy practices.
      • Water Absorption Zones: Implementation of water absorption zones using premium, porous bricks generously provided by Al-Abbas's Holy Shrine bricks factory helps prevent flooding by absorbing and releasing moisture from rainfall. This ensures the resilience of campus infrastructure and safe passage for pedestrians.
        
        
        
        
        
      • Green Campus Initiatives: With an open space ratio of 89.01% and significant areas dedicated to vegetation (30.01% of the total area), the university enhances environmental sustainability and reduces stormwater runoff, mitigating erosion and protecting water resources.
        
        
        
        
        
        

   3. Innovation in Agriculture and Food Production:
      
      
      
      
      

      • Advanced Agricultural Technology: Alkafeel University employs cutting-edge technology to improve food production and plant growth, contributing to sustainable industrialization in agriculture.

      • Establishment of New Departments: The university has established new departments focused on agriculture and food production, fostering research and innovation in these fields.

      • Community Engagement: By promoting plant conservation and encouraging the wider community to cultivate more plants for food production, the university supports local industry and innovation.
        
        
        

      • Additional Resources:

        • Planting Campaign and Green Initiatives
        • Support for Agricultural Workers
        • Promotion of Planting Vegetation

   4. Inclusive and Accessible Infrastructure:

      • Facilities for Individuals with Disabilities: All buildings are designed with accessibility features such as handicap-accessible entrances, elevators, accessible toilets, and parking spaces for people with special needs and pregnant women. This promotes inclusive education and equal opportunities.
      • Supportive Infrastructure: The university provides private rooms for women to rest and pray, furnished to support maternity care, enhancing the inclusivity and comfort of the campus environment.

   5. Safety and Security Enhancements:

      • Advanced Safety Measures: Installation of CCTV surveillance, fire hydrants, fire alarm systems, and FM-200™ fire suppression systems ensures the safety and resilience of infrastructure. The university maintains an efficient CCTV monitoring room for real-time surveillance, facilitating immediate alerts and prompt responses to incidents.
        
        

      • Emergency Preparedness: Alkafeel University provides first aid facilities and ambulances, and all buildings are equipped with specific emergency exits such as separate exit doors and fire escape stairs, enhancing the safety of students and staff.
        
        
        
        

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        Collaboration with Civil Defense: The university hosted events with the Civil Defense delegation in February 2023, aiming to strengthen cooperation, bolster public safety measures, and optimize the utilization of available resources for emergency management.

      • Additional Resources:

        • Safety and Security Measures
        • Collaboration with Civil Defense
        • Implementation of Fire Safety Systems

   6. Promotion of Research and Technological Capabilities:

      • Cutting-Edge Laboratories: The university provides state-of-the-art laboratories that enhance scientific research and technological capabilities, contributing to innovation and advancement in various fields.
      • Educational Programs: Offering programs in engineering, medicine, pharmacy, and more, Alkafeel University contributes to upgrading technological skills and knowledge, preparing graduates to participate in and drive sustainable industrialization.

   7. Sustainable Transportation Infrastructure:

      • Strategic Location and Planning: Situated in a suburban area serving as a buffer between the city center and commercial zones, the university recognizes the reliance on cars for transportation and is poised to address sustainable transportation needs in future planning.

   8. Collaboration and Partnerships:

      • Partnerships with Health Organizations: Collaboration with entities like the Ministry of Health enhances infrastructure in healthcare services, supporting industry development and community well-being.

      • Resource Sharing: Alkafeel University provides services and facilities during large city events, supporting community infrastructure needs and fostering industry collaboration.

      • Additional Resources:

        • Health Services Enhancement
        • Community Health Initiatives
        • Medical Support during City Events

   
   

   
   Through its multifaceted initiatives, Alkafeel University actively contributes to SDG 9 by:

   • Building Resilient Infrastructure: Investing in state-of-the-art facilities and sustainable infrastructure that supports education, research, and community services.
   • Promoting Inclusive and Sustainable Industrialization: Enhancing agricultural practices, supporting local industries, and fostering innovation through advanced technology and educational programs.
   • Fostering Innovation: Providing cutting-edge laboratories and research opportunities that enhance technological capabilities and contribute to industry advancements.
   • Ensuring Inclusivity: Designing infrastructure that is accessible to all, promoting equal opportunities, and supporting a diverse community.
   • Enhancing Safety and Security: Implementing advanced safety measures and emergency preparedness protocols to protect the university community and infrastructure.
   • Collaborating with Community and Industry Partners: Engaging with health organizations and supporting community events to strengthen industry ties and infrastructure development.

   These efforts not only support the immediate university community but also have a positive impact on the broader society, aligning with the goals of SDG 9 to build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and foster innovation.