Empowering Communities Through the UCSE Grant Programme: Advancing Sustainability Initiatives at the University of Nottingham Malaysia
On November 23, 2024, the Enactus Club at the University of Nottingham Malaysia (UNM) received a grant of RM40,000 as part of the University Community Social Enterprise (UCSE) funding initiative introduced by the Ministry of Higher Education. The grant was awarded by YB Dato’ Seri Dr Zambry bin Abdul Kadir, the Minister of Higher Education, to club representatives including Koo Jian Yuan, Celeste Ritchell Low Ken Nee, Celine Ling Jia Ying, and Christine Yee Chai Shing, accompanied by Divaghar Voothayakumar, a Senior Students’ Association Officer.
Support for Project EcoNow
This funding will support the club’s sustainability initiative known as Project EcoNow, which aims to enhance awareness of recycling practices within the university and its surrounding community. A significant aspect of Project EcoNow is the introduction of EcoScent, a collection of scented candles produced from repurposed cooking oil sourced from local households and eateries. Revenue generated from these products will be reinvested into further sustainability endeavors, promoting circular economic practices and fostering environmental responsibility.
Community Engagement and Innovation
The UCSE grant programme received submissions from 32 educational institutions throughout Malaysia, which included 20 public universities, nine private universities, and three premier polytechnic institutions. These institutions were acknowledged for their innovative contributions to community engagement.
University’s Commitment to Sustainability
This initiative reflects UNM’s commitment to sustainability and its role in encouraging environmentally conscious practices among its student body. The university continues to pursue initiatives that align with global sustainability goals.
(Source: Nottingham University Malaysia)