In a significant step towards a greener future, Batangas State University, The National Engineering University (BatStateU The NEU), became the epicenter of progressive cross-disciplinary dialogue by hosting its 2024 Sustainability Summit under the inspiring theme of “Sustainability Synergy: Integrating Quality Education into Every Discipline,” at Narra Hall, Jose Rizal Building, Pablo Borbon Campus, Batangas City on March 11.

The event marked a fundamental convergence of over a hundred administrators, educators, and professionals dedicated to empowering them with practical resources, tools, and strategies for seamlessly infusing sustainability into academic curricula.

The summit opened with vibrant preliminary activities, including networking opportunities and showcases of the university’s sustainability ventures, signaling a proactive step towards intertwining sustainability with academic excellence.

Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Charmaine Rose L. Triviño, set the tone with an inspiring address, underlining the important role of education in sculpting future leaders poised to tackle sustainability’s multifaceted challenges. Following her, University President Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo delivered a compelling message about BatStateU’s dedication to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reinforcing the university’s pledge towards a sustainable academic framework.

“Quality education is the cornerstone of a sustainable future, empowering the Red Spartans to transform BatStateU and our world, too. Let’s champion SDG 4 to drive real change together,” Dr. Ronquillo shared.

The University’s sustainability status reported by Dr. Vaberlie P. Mandane-Garcia, Sustainable Development Officer, offered a reflective look at the BatStateU strides and hurdles in fulfilling the SDGs, marking a significant moment of introspection and resolve.

Highlighting the event were keynote speeches by Prof. Ir. Gunawan Tjahjono, M.Arch., Ph.D., from UI GreenMetric, who delved into sustainable higher education landscapes, and Dr. Albert Ko of Lingnan University, who discussed the integration of service-learning with sustainability education, providing a global context to BatState’s initiatives.

Prof. Ir. Tjahjono is a revered figure in architecture and sustainability with an illustrious academic background from the University of Indonesia and the University of California. As an expert in integrating sustainable practices in architecture, his significant contributions include serving on the UI GreenMetric Advisory Board and as the Rector of the University of Pembangunan Jaya.

Meanwhile, with an extensive academic and professional background in engineering and humanitarian work, Dr. Ko stands out as a pioneer in developing innovative technology for global challenges. As the Director of Lingnan Entrepreneurship Initiative and Office of Service-Learning at Lingnan University, he has made notable contributions to education and humanitarian efforts, impacting thousands annually.

Then, an enlightening panel discussion titled “Practices and Path of Sustainability Integration in the Curriculum: The Experience of BatStateU Campuses,” moderated by Dr. Benedict O. Medina, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, brought forward engaging dialogues from faculty and administrators. The discourse fostered best practices and explored strategies for integrating sustainability principles into various academic disciplines, demonstrating BatStateU’s innovative educational methods.

The summit concluded on a high note with Atty. Noel Alberto S. Omandap, Vice President for Development and External Affairs, expressed gratitude to all attendees and reiterated BatStateu’s enduring commitment to integrating sustainability into its foundational operations.

The 2024 Sustainability Summit at BatStateU underscored a global model for educational sectors, highlighting collaboration and knowledge-sharing on sustainable and innovative education practices. Red Spartans left equipped with new insights and inspirations, ready to enact positive environmental and social transformations in their respective domains.