Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) recently partnered with Temasek Polytechnic in Singapore and HKU SPACE Po Leung Kuk Stanley Ho Community College in Hong Kong to organize the Sustainability Collective E-Exchange Programme 2025. The event took place on September 13 and 27, 2025, facilitating the participation of 30 students from the three institutions. The initiative aimed to connect students and encourage them to address real-world sustainability challenges through a virtual exchange focused on cross-border learning and innovation.
Keynote Sessions
The program featured keynote sessions led by Dr. Van Dao Truong, an Assistant Professor of Tourism at UBD’s Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, and Tan Shi Zhou, the founder of ACCESS Sustainability. These speakers provided insights relevant to sustainability, setting a foundation for collaborative work among students on various related topics.
International Team Collaboration
During the initiative, participants were organized into international teams to concentrate on five primary themes: Circular Economy, Sustainability Education and Community Engagement, Sustainable Fashion, Sustainable Tourism, and Urban Sustainability. Over the two weeks between sessions, students expanded their research efforts by investigating local success stories and conducting interviews with relevant stakeholders, enhancing their collaborative insights through online interactions.
Showcase Event
The program culminated on September 27 with a showcase event where teams presented their findings and proposed solutions in 10-minute group presentations. These presentations were evaluated through peer review, and awards were presented in categories including Excellence in Research and Insights, Most Innovative Idea, and Best Storytelling and Presentation.
Development of Skills and Awareness
Additionally, the initiative aimed to develop participants’ skills in project management, critical thinking, and intercultural teamwork, while raising awareness of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Students were exposed to diverse perspectives on sustainability solutions applicable to various countries and communities.
Building International Networks
The exchange enabled students to broaden their knowledge and build international networks with peers committed to advancing sustainability. This program highlighted UBD’s commitment to sustainability education and regional collaboration, reinforcing its role as a center for innovative research and international initiatives that contribute to sustainable development.
(Source: UBD)
