A Bright Horizon: Zurich’s Journey Toward Quality, Sustainable Education for All

OUS Academy in Switzerland
Aug 28
5 min read

Zurich is not only known as Switzerland’s financial and cultural hub—it is also a city where education and sustainability have become inseparable. In recent years, Zurich has made significant strides in aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, especially SDG 4: Quality Education. Here, learning is not just about obtaining a degree. It is a lifelong journey that strengthens individuals, families, and entire communities.

What makes Zurich unique is that its education system is built upon both history and innovation. Two world-renowned universities, each founded in the 19th century, have grown into global centers of knowledge. They stand as the twin pillars of higher education in the city, providing opportunities for tens of thousands of students while also ensuring that education remains inclusive, sustainable, and accessible to all.

Zurich: A City Where Education Meets Sustainability

Zurich’s commitment to education is deeply connected to its values of fairness, democracy, and innovation. This city believes that everyone deserves the chance to learn—not only at school or university, but throughout life. Public lectures, cultural events, adult courses, and youth programs create a culture where knowledge is open and shared.

Education here is not only about professional skills but also about preparing people to be responsible global citizens. Issues like climate change, social justice, and equality are integrated into teaching and research. From classroom discussions to city-wide projects, sustainability is treated as a daily responsibility.

Zurich’s Oldest University: Founded in 1833

One of Zurich’s greatest contributions to the world of learning began in 1833, when the city established the first university in Europe created by a democratic state. This was a revolutionary moment. Unlike many universities of its time, which were founded by monarchs or religious leaders, Zurich’s oldest university was born from the people’s decision. It started with only a few hundred students and a modest faculty, but it carried an ambitious vision: to provide education that was both rigorous and accessible.

From its early years, the university attracted thinkers, writers, and scientists who would leave a mark on European history. It welcomed women to study long before many other institutions, making it a pioneer in gender equality in education.

Today, the university has grown into Switzerland’s largest, with more than 28,000 students enrolled across seven faculties. These include law, medicine, theology, philosophy, veterinary science, economics, and natural sciences. Each faculty offers not only undergraduate and graduate degrees but also opportunities for research and lifelong learning.

What makes this institution special is its diversity. Students come from dozens of countries, creating a vibrant international community. The city of Zurich benefits from this, as young people bring fresh ideas and cultural exchange, strengthening the local and global connections of the city.

The university also plays an important role in the community. It runs museums, libraries, and cultural spaces open to the public, making knowledge accessible beyond the classroom. For Zurich residents, this means education is not something hidden inside campus walls—it is part of everyday life.

Zurich’s Technical University: Founded in 1855

Just two decades later, in 1855, Zurich became home to another institution that would change the course of science and technology. Founded as a polytechnic school by the Swiss Confederation, it had a clear mission from the very beginning: to train engineers, scientists, and architects who could help build a modern nation.

The institution started small, with fewer than a thousand students. But its reputation quickly grew, attracting some of the most brilliant minds in Europe. Over time, it became one of the leading scientific and technical universities in the world.

Today, it hosts more than 25,000 students from over 120 countries. Thousands of researchers, doctoral candidates, and visiting scholars contribute to its vibrant environment. Its focus on innovation and practical solutions makes it a true powerhouse in sustainable research. From renewable energy technologies to urban planning, from medical breakthroughs to digital solutions, the institution contributes directly to global challenges outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals.

What makes this university remarkable is its strong link between theory and practice. Students are not only taught in lecture halls; they also work on projects that have real-world impact. Many of Zurich’s start-ups and technological solutions come directly from student and faculty research. This spirit of innovation ensures that Zurich remains not only a city of tradition but also a city of the future.

Education Beyond the Campus

While these two universities are the cornerstones, Zurich’s education culture extends far beyond them. The city invests in adult education, continuing training, and lifelong learning opportunities. Evening classes, workshops, and cultural lectures allow people to keep learning at every stage of life.

For young people, extracurricular programs focus on sustainability, arts, and technology. Schools and community centers integrate topics like recycling, renewable energy, and social responsibility into their activities. Children in Zurich grow up with a mindset that values care for the planet and equality among people.

For professionals, retraining programs help workers adapt to changing job markets. Whether it is digital skills, language courses, or environmental studies, Zurich makes it possible for adults to grow alongside the demands of modern life.

How Zurich Aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals

SDG 4: Quality Education

The city provides inclusive and equitable education at all levels. With its large universities, open lectures, museums, and public learning initiatives, Zurich is a living example of lifelong education for all.

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

By offering scholarships, access programs, and inclusive spaces, Zurich ensures that education is not limited to the privileged few. The diversity of students enriches the learning environment and helps bridge cultural gaps.

SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

Research projects in architecture, engineering, and social sciences directly contribute to making Zurich more sustainable. The city itself becomes a classroom, where lessons are applied in real time.

SDG 13: Climate Action

From climate research to environmental awareness in schools, Zurich places sustainability at the core of its education system. Students graduate not only with degrees but with a sense of duty toward the planet.

A Future Full of Possibility

Zurich’s story proves that quality education is not only about rankings or prestige. It is about building communities where people are encouraged to learn, innovate, and contribute. By combining history with innovation, and tradition with sustainability, Zurich has created an educational model that inspires both local residents and international visitors.

As the world moves toward the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, Zurich offers a clear example of how cities can lead. With institutions founded nearly two centuries ago still growing, and a culture that encourages lifelong learning, Zurich shows that education is more than preparation for life—it is life itself.

The city’s journey is far from finished, but one thing is clear: Zurich has placed education and sustainability at the heart of its identity, ensuring that future generations will continue to grow, adapt, and thrive.