This chapter explores the various pathways through which higher education can have a positive impact on the SDGs. The goals are diverse in nature, and their achievement requires in some cases innovation and breakthroughs in knowledge, in some the development of professional skills, and in others the raising of public awareness or changing of attitudes. The roles of the university, therefore, must be equally diverse, involving education, knowledge production, service delivery, public debate and embodiment (expressing the principles of the SDGs within the workings of the institution). The chapter also assesses existing evidence of the impact of universities in lower income countries and draws out implications for the changes needed in policy and practice.