UGM and ITB Students Win EcoVation 2026 with Sustainable Nickel Governance Proposal
A student team from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) and Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB) secured first place at EcoVation 2026, a national sustainability case competition, with an innovative proposal aimed at improving environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices in Indonesia’s nickel industry. The final round was held at the PwC Office WTC 3 in South Jakarta on 10 July 2026.
The winning team consisted of UGM Industrial Engineering students Fatika Permata Dewi and Derichson Qualimva, along with ITB student Fadil Alfayat. In addition to the championship title, Qualimva was recognised with the Best Speaker Award.
Their proposal, titled Dirty Nickel, addressed concerns over Indonesia’s nickel industry by highlighting challenges related to ESG transparency and international market perceptions. The team introduced PROVE-N (Proof-based Responsible & Verified Nickel), a three-layer governance and verification framework designed to support responsible nickel production.
The framework focuses on establishing operational ESG standards, improving data traceability, and creating an internationally aligned certification mechanism. It aims to strengthen Indonesia’s credibility in sustainable mineral production while supporting global standards such as IRMA, CBAM, and the Battery Passport.
Through multiple competition stages involving industry partners, the team demonstrated strong analytical thinking, collaboration, and innovation. Their achievement highlights the growing role of students in developing practical solutions for sustainability challenges and advancing responsible industrial practices.
