Shape Your Future, Heal Our Planet
At Sunway University, as we move students closer to their own goals, we also wish to move together towards a common goal: healing the planet. By integrating the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into our curriculum and campus practices, we ensure that every student is empowered to contribute to global sustainability efforts. From innovative water conservation techniques to the promotion of clean energy, economic growth, and sustainable communities, Sunway University is dedicated to creating a brighter, more sustainable future. Join us and become part of a community that prioritises environmental stewardship and prepares you to be a leader in making the world a better place.
So, how exactly does our University take on this responsibility? Sunway University chooses to integrate the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals as a major part of our identity and our DNA. The SDGs are widely integrated across the curriculum at Sunway University. Subjects that focus on sustainable practices are part of many programmes, including both core and elective subjects. Examples include subjects such as Sustainable Development Policies, Economics of Sustainability Management, Corporate Sustainability Strategies, Community Service for Planetary Health and many more.
Beyond the curriculum, the entire Sunway University campus has been designed with sustainability in mind. Here are some examples of the SDGs that are a major part of Sunway’s campus:
SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation seeks to provide clean and stable water supply, as well as effective water sanitation for all by 2030. Through the utilisation of water tracking, rainwater harvesting, and the reuse of water from the South Quay Lake, Sunway University not only conserves water but also provides free drinking water, ensuring water accessibility for all and no single-use water bottles.
SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy is exactly as its name implies, aiming to provide affordable and clean energy for all. The use of solar panels at the University sets an example for alternative energy usage, and none of the energy is wasted as the excess is sold back to the grid. Implementing a centralised chiller system on campus has also allowed for less energy consumption.
SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth promotes sustained economic growth, higher levels of productivity and technological innovation. This is implemented via programmes such as 42 KL, an innovative programming school that offers an opportunity to all, regardless of socioeconomic background. The University also places high priority on its Diversity & Inclusion policy.
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities seeks to create career and business opportunities, safe and affordable housing, and build resilient societies and economies. At Sunway University, we are focused on providing a safe space where art and culture will always have a home. Some examples of this include the Sunway Conservatoire of Music, the Ipoh Preservation of Heritage Project and the Centre for Research-Creation in Digital Media (CRCDM).
The 17th SDG is one of the most important ones, as it allows for the other SDGs to be realised. Sunway University is a proud proponent of the SDG 17: Partnerships for Goals, as the University constantly seeks to establish global partnerships to further sustainable causes. The University is a proud partner of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), with Sunway University hosting the SDSN Kuala Lumpur Office, which acts as the Asian HQ for SDSN and works closely with the New York and Paris offices. The Jeffrey Sachs Center on Sustainable Development also operates from Sunway University, collaborating with industry, government bodies, NGOs and universities worldwide to develop solutions related to the SDGs.
Besides the SDG-focused campus, the University also aims to instill SDGs into the lifestyle of all our Sunwayians. When you are a student at Sunway, you can expect to be a part of a multitude of sustainable initiatives, such as our CWAC (Campus with a Conscience) week and our campus-wide ‘Zero Plastic Hour’ campaign. As a result of the Zero Plastic Hour Campaign, our campus F&B vendors are now entirely free of single-use plastics! Just by being a student at Sunway University’s campus, you can make a huge difference in the fight for sustainability.
The University has also played host to several major events. One such example is the Times Higher Education Asia Summit, which took place this year at the University campus from 29th April to 1st May. Over 600 esteemed global educational leaders, delegates and academics from universities across the region were present at Sunway as they engaged in a collaborative exchange of knowledge, skills and resources over 35 academic sessions. The Summit placed an emphasis on equipping graduates with the practical skills and knowledge that will enhance their job prospects and contribute to economic growth and positive societal development. The event even featured a gala dinner as part of the THE Awards Asia 2024 winners’ ceremony at Sunway Resort Hotel, graced by the presence of KDYMM Seri Paduka Baginda Raja Permaisuri Agong Raja Zarith Sofiah. At this ceremony, Sunway University was recognised with the Outstanding Support for Students award.
In essence, Sunway University's holistic approach to integrating the UN's Sustainable Development Goals throughout its curriculum and campus initiatives underscores a genuine commitment to fostering a sustainable future. By prioritising SDGs in academic offerings and institutional practices, Sunway University empowers students and staff to actively contribute to global sustainability efforts, cultivating a community dedicated to positive change. This comprehensive approach ensures that every member of the University is equipped with the knowledge, skills, and mindset needed to address the complex challenges of our time and create a more sustainable world for future generations.
