FBF Dean and lecturer conduct online training on SDG12 for Guizhou University of Finance and Economics (GUFE) students in 2023 China-ASEAN Education Cooperation Week

UTAR Faculty of Business and Finance (FBF) Dean Assoc Prof Dr Au Yong Hui Nee and FBF Head of Doctor of Philosophy (Economics) Programme Assoc Prof Dr Abdelhak Senadjki successfully conducted an online training titled “Twelve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with a focus on responsible consumption and production” on 25 August 2023 and 1 September 2023 via Zoom.

Aimed at promoting awareness and understanding of responsible consumption and production, the two-day programme, aligned with SDG 12, was designed especially for youths.

Attended by more than 100 participants collectively, the online training also aimed at encouraging sustainable resource usage and highlighting Malaysia’s role as one of the world’s top 12 bio-diversified countries. The participants included students and educators who were interested in sustainable development.

The online training programme was specially dedicated to the undergraduate and postgraduate students of Guizhou University of Finance and Economics (GUFE). The online training was conducted as part of the 2023 China-ASEAN Education Cooperation Week.

Participants sought to gain a comprehensive understanding of responsible consumption and production and its far-reaching implications for society, the environment and the economy. The expectations among the participants varied but generally included gaining knowledge of sustainable manufacturing practices, recycling, and energy-efficient methods, understanding the importance of ethical procurement and responsible sourcing throughout the supply chain, grasping the environmental impact of industrial processes and products, becoming familiar with relevant regulations and compliance in the realm of ethical manufacturing, and learning effective communication and stakeholder engagement strategies to promote ethical production practices.

Dr Au Yong led the programme on Day 1, focusing on Responsible Consumption. Meanwhile, Dr Abdelhak led the training on Day 2, centred on Responsible Production. Students who completed the programme were awarded certificates of completion.

The training emphasised the critical link between sustainable consumption and production and its impact on environmental, social and economic well-being. Discussions highlighted the global consequences of biodiversity disruption, such as pandemics, economic implications, and the destruction of natural habitats.

The training programme also served as a platform for participants to not only expand their knowledge but also exchange ideas, engage in discussions and develop practical solutions for responsible consumption and production.

Dr Au Yong and Dr Abdelhak enthused, “The workshop addressed the critical need for sustainable development in a world facing pressing environmental challenges. It sought to equip participants with the knowledge and skills required to address these challenges effectively, particularly in the areas of responsible consumption and production. The training programme acknowledged the intricate link between human actions and global repercussions, emphasising the importance of responsible resource use, ethical manufacturing and waste reduction. Throughout the two-day programme, participants explored sustainable manufacturing practices, ethical procurement, the environmental impact of industrial processes, relevant regulations, and effective communication strategies.”