SMU wins two international awards for leading sustainability and next-gen learning
SMU’s efforts toward sustainability received notable recognition with two 2024 International Green Gown Awards for “Sustainability Institution of the Year” and “Next Generational Learning and Skills”. The University was also Highly Commended in the 2030 Climate Action category for taking bold steps in reducing its carbon footprint on campus through innovative construction technologies and methodologies.
These awards acknowledge SMU’s steady commitment to fostering a sustainable future through the SMU-X pedagogy and its comprehensive Sustainability Blueprint. By integrating sustainable practices into the university’s learning environment and broader community, SMU is helping to shape a culture of responsibility and awareness that extends well beyond the campus.
The International Green Gown Awards recognise and celebrate outstanding sustainability initiatives in higher education across the globe.
Winners were announced by the Environmental Association for Universities and Colleges (EAUC) – the leading body for sustainability in the post-16 education sector in the UK and Republic of Ireland – in association with Allianz Global Investors, one of the world’s leading active investment managers.
This year, 28 awards were presented to institutions from 14 countries, which further highlights an increasing commitment to embedding sustainability into educational practices.
Sustainability woven into the fabric of the community
Judges awarded SMU “Sustainability Institution of the Year” as they felt that SMU has displayed a strong commitment to building a culture of sustainability.
Through SMU’s Sustainability Blueprint, sustainability has been embedded in the way the community works, learns, lives and plays. Informed by the UN SDGs, SMU’s Sustainability Blueprint charts its actions forward in concerted ways across the four strategies of Cultivating a Greener University, Developing Change Agents, Driving Impactful Research and Fostering Resilient Communities.
The judges commented: “The significant increase in student-led sustainability initiatives and startups is a clear indicator of the institution's success in fostering a culture of sustainability.” They also highlighted that SMU’s inclusion of sustainability in its core curriculum for all undergraduates from AY2024/25 demonstrates a commitment to integrating sustainability into the educational experience.
Judges also indicated that SMU’s inclusion of mental health resilience in its blueprint was welcome, noting that it was uncommon to see but increasingly needed. “The extension of paid paternity and childcare leave to non-Singaporeans and the collaboration with SG Enable to create career opportunities for differently abled individuals are notable efforts that reflect a deep commitment to inclusivity,” elaborated the comments.
Pioneering next generation learning and skills
Winning in the“Next Generational Learning and Skills” category further exemplifies SMU’s dedication to preparing future leaders equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in a sustainable world.
“SMU-X was an ambitious but practical, project-based learning model that integrates academic education in a real-world context,” shared the judges in their comments.
They were also swayed by the social impacts of diversity and inclusion demonstrated by SMU-X projects.
As part of SMU-X, students and faculty work alongside industry professionals to develop perspectives that contribute to sustainable development goals. This exposure to diverse perspectives and sustainability practices from around the world also helps prepare students to be effective global citizens and advocates for sustainability beyond Singapore and the region.
“We are delighted to be recognised for our innovative pedagogical approach; the accolade is a testament to our commitment to industry project-based experiential learning. SMU-X is a platform for academia and industry to come together to drive meaningful impact,” SMU Provost Professor Timothy Clark said.
“By emphasising real-world problem solving, and through collaborations with partners in the public, people, and private sectors, we prepare our students to be future change leaders capable of addressing real-world sustainability challenges and driving positive environmental and social change.”
