Factors Affecting Successful Implementation of Education-Related Sustainable Development Goal: Evidence from Sri Lanka

Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) focuses on inclusive, equitable, and quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all. Sri Lanka has initiated several programs to achieve the SDGs but faces constraints in their implementation, particularly in the education sector. Using qualitative research methods and in-depth interviews, this study investigates the factors that influence the successful implementation of education-related SDGs. This study selected 15 organizations as a sample for data collection and interviewed a top-level officer from each organization. We used thematic analysis to analyze the data. The study revealed that financial, technology-related, knowledge-related, organizational, and cultural factors primarily influence the successful implementation of education-related SDG 4. Effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions related to SDG 16 are essential for the successful implementation of education policies in Sri Lanka. We suggest policy measures to enhance progress in this regard.