In an attempt foster sustainability-driven learning throughout disciplines, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) has formed a strategic commitment to incorporate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles within its scholarly ecosystem. UTM demonstrated its commitment to participating in planetary stewardship by consistently standing among the top 100-180 universities globally with respect of its contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations (UN) as of 2023. The commitment is in conformity with UTM’s mission of creating out graduates who are not just capable scholars but also ethical global citizens.
A key element of UTM’s approach is the incorporation of planetary health principles into all of its courses, which fosters an awareness of the connection between environmental sustainability and human well-being. According to recent research, Southeast Asia’s need for talents associated with green and ESG is growing by more than 30% that could emphasis the requirement for graduates with these kinds of specialization. Micro-credential programs geared toward the green economy, include environmental management, sustainable urban planning, and renewable energy systems, form a component of UTM’s curriculum at various faculties. As these micro-credentials are stackable, students can gain specialized knowledge that improves their employability and meets the unique requirements of a swiftly evolving, sustainability-focused labor market.
UTM has increased the scope of its Open Distance Learning (ODL) capabilities in order to reach a wider audience with its ESG-focused programs. According to recent studies, ODL’s versatility and accessibility can boost enrollment in sustainability-related courses by 40%. Students in Malaysia and abroad can access top-notch, ESG-focused educational materials through resources like UTM’s Global Open Learning Centre. This strategy fits with the national agenda of Malaysia on digital transformation in higher education and allows UTM to bring planetary health education to a diverse audience, fostering a sense of global responsibility among students from various socioeconomic background.
This strategy supports UTM’s initiatives to offer planetary health education to a wide range of students from different socioeconomic backgrounds and is in compliance with Malaysia’s national agenda on technological advancement in higher education. By integrating these strategic efforts, UTM hopes to develop a generation of highly qualified professionals who are also driven to promote sustainability and make constructive contributions to society. UTM’s primary goal as a pioneer in sustainable education is reflected in its emphasis on ESG and planetary health, which also emphasizes the institution’s role in bring about revolutionary transformation for a resilient future.
