Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) shows its commitment to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by launching the SDGs Festival from November 20 to 22, 2023, at the Garuda Mukti Hall, Management Building, MERR-C Campus.
One of the highlight moments in the festival was the talk show with the theme of “Transformative Policy Innovation for a healthy and sustainable Environment”. Prof. Retna Apsari, UNAIR’s SDGs Expert, also attended as a speaker in the talk show.
Exploring UNAIR’s SDGs
Prof. Retna claimed that UNAIR has implemented seventeen goals of SDGs, particularly in the Goal 1, 3, 5,7, 8, 9, and 13. Approaching sustainable development of the university can be achieved through the involvement of government and parliament, academics and experts, civil society organizations and media, as well as philanthropy and businesses.
“It’s time to align our frequencies to take the actions together. We still have poverty issues that need to be resolved. For instance, poverty is not a commodity for the sake of image-building. UNAIR has developed products to address poverty issues, one of which is a stunting intervention product,” the professor said.
Currently, the lecturers and students have improved their research, innovations, and community development programs. In 2023, the research focuses on the blue economy, green economy, health, digital economy, tourism and conservation, and food security.
“UNAIR has conducted research through pilot projects in Remote Islands in Madura, Border Islands in Bintan, and Coastal Areas in Banyuwangi. On the latter project, UNAIR detected fish pH levels and explored tourism opportunities there. All faculties will be involved in the projects,” she said.
Synergy and frequency
The Solar Shelter Charging Station innovation contributes to SDGs 7 and 9. The energy storage system is utilized for charging stations catering to the coastal communities on Gili Iyang Island. Hence, the synergy between students, lecturers, the community, and the government in policy-making is highly essential.
The university plays a significant role in achieving the SDGs through education, research, and partnership. The integration of SDGs into the curriculum enriches students’ awareness, encourages positive actions, and fosters a sustainable campus environment.
“When society embraces our innovations, it leads to economic growth and an understanding of clean technology. Consequently, when the frequencies align, there will be an extraordinary multiplication of energy,” Prof. Retna concluded. (*)