SDGtalks.ai | News, Content & Communication - Bitwul Dashe https://sdgtalks.ai/rss/author/bitwul-dashe SDGtalks.ai | News, Content & Communication - Bitwul Dashe en Copyright 2021 sdgtalks.ai - All Rights Reserved. University Students at the Forefront of Global Challenges https://sdgtalks.ai/This-generation-of-young-adults-stands-directly-in-the-path-of-significant-global-challenges%2C-ranging-from-climate-change-and-environmental-degradation-to-issues-of-inequality%2C-poverty%2C-and-the-quest-for-peace-and-justice.-The-gravity-of-these-challenges-cannot-be-understated%2C-as-they-promise-to-shape-our-futures-in-profound-ways. https://sdgtalks.ai/This-generation-of-young-adults-stands-directly-in-the-path-of-significant-global-challenges%2C-ranging-from-climate-change-and-environmental-degradation-to-issues-of-inequality%2C-poverty%2C-and-the-quest-for-peace-and-justice.-The-gravity-of-these-challenges-cannot-be-understated%2C-as-they-promise-to-shape-our-futures-in-profound-ways. Fri, 15 Sep 2023 10:35:45 -0500 Bitwul Dashe Climate Change, quality education This generation of young adults stands directly in the path of significant global challenges, ranging from climate change and environmental degradation to issues of inequality, poverty, and the quest for peace and justice. The gravity of these challenges cannot be understated, as they promise to shape our futures in profound ways.

Yet, there’s hope on the horizon. Universities worldwide are ramping up efforts to keep students not only informed but also equipped to tackle these impending challenges. However, there’s a lingering sentiment among some: do everyday sustainable actions truly count?

Building Sustainable Campuses and Communities 

Highlighting the importance of collective action, the University of Galway’s Environmental Society convened a special panel consisting of students and environmental advocates. Their mission was to brainstorm on transforming the university campus into a beacon of inclusivity, resilience, safety, and sustainability, and to catalyse broader positive changes throughout Galway City.

Malema Threm, the university’s Officer of Environment and Sustainability, emphasised the gathering’s significance, noting, “This event serves as a unified platform for students to raise awareness, exchange innovative solutions, and truly make a difference.”

“I believe University students hold the potential to reshape our world, ensuring the realisation of all global objectives.,” she added.

Using the UN’s SDGs as a Blueprint

The University of Galway is harnessing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to guide its students in addressing Galway’s unique sustainable development challenges.

According to Malema Threm, sustainability has steadily solidified its position as a cornerstone value at the university. This commitment is evident in the University of Galway’s Strategic Plan for, 2020-2025 which prioritises sustainable initiatives.

“I hope to see us create a Galway where we have proper structure for walking, cycling, and mobility for people with disability,” said Malema. 

Meanwhile, the university’s Environmental Society plans to host future events to promote sustainability across learning, research, and the student experience so that the campus community can become sustainability role models.

In this regard, the University of Galway has recently been designated a national SDG Champion for 2023–24 by the Department of Environment, Climate, and Communications thereby becoming a role model to other universities.

 Bitwul Dashe is a Global media and communications student at the University of Galway.

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