The Center for Sustainable Development Studies and Technology (CSDST) is an independent, non-profit, university-affiliated think tank established at the Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST)—one of Jordan’s leading public universities, founded by Royal Decree in 1986. The Center specializes in developing strategies, conducting studies and applied research, providing technical consultations, and designing and managing development projects that contribute to the achievement of sustainable development.
CSDST works to provide decision-makers, civil society organizations, and local, regional, and international donors with evidence-based, scientifically grounded analysis and policy advice to support informed decision-making and effective public policies aimed at advancing sustainable development.
The Center was originally established on 12 September 2002 under the name Center for Civil Society Development, following a resolution of the Higher Education Council (Session No. 17). On 12 February 2023, pursuant to a resolution of the Board of Trustees (Session No. 2/2023), the Center was officially renamed the Center for Sustainable Development Studies and Technology (CSDST). This change reflects the Center’s expanded institutional mandate, encompassing applied research, capacity building, women’s empowerment, and community engagement.
Since its establishment, women’s empowerment, gender equality, and the elimination of all forms of violence and discrimination against women and girls have constituted core pillars of the Center’s mission. These principles have been embedded in its strategic vision since 2002, reflecting the Center’s long-standing conviction that empowering women is essential to achieving sustainable development, human dignity, and social justice.
In 2023, this commitment was further institutionalized through the establishment of a dedicated Women Empowerment Division within the Center’s organizational structure, under the Projects Department. This step did not introduce a new thematic focus, but rather formalized and strengthened the Center’s sustained efforts in promoting women’s rights, advancing gender equality, and combating gender-based violence. This initiative also reflects the shared vision of both CSDST and JUST that women’s empowerment is a cornerstone of Jordan’s national modernization and development agenda.
As a center of excellence, CSDST, in close collaboration with JUST, has a proven track record in the design and implementation of internationally funded capacity-building and development projects across key sectors, including sustainability, governance, health, and community empowerment. The Center has partnered with leading international and regional organizations such as the European Union, Erasmus+ Programme, GIZ, FAO, USAID, WHO, NIH, and others, delivering evidence-based solutions and impactful interventions at the national and regional levels.
