RCE Penang - 2024

Location

Malaysia
See map: Google Maps
MY
AMELIORATING SDG ACUMEN AMONG YOUTH: ENGAGING RCE SEJAHTERA YOUTH, UNIVERSITI SAINS MALAYSIA (USM) MEMBERS, UNIVERSITAS SYIAH KUALA (USK), AND SMAN NEGERI 10 SCHOOL STUDENTS, INCLUDING PRIMARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN PENANG, MALAYSIA
CSV
Basic Information
Title of project : 
AMELIORATING SDG ACUMEN AMONG YOUTH: ENGAGING RCE SEJAHTERA YOUTH, UNIVERSITI SAINS MALAYSIA (USM) MEMBERS, UNIVERSITAS SYIAH KUALA (USK), AND SMAN NEGERI 10 SCHOOL STUDENTS, INCLUDING PRIMARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN PENANG, MALAYSIA
Submitting RCE: 
RCE Penang
Contributing organization(s) : 
1. CENTRE FOR GLOBBAL SUSTAINABILITY STUDIES (CGSS) UNIVERSITI SAINS MALAYSIA
2. UNIVERSITAS SYIAH KUALA, BANDA ACEH, INDONESIA
3. SMAN 10 FAJAR HARAPAN BANDA ACEH, INDONESIA
Focal point(s) and affiliation(s)
Name: 
Dr. Rohaya Abdullah
Organizational Affiliation: 
Universiti Sains Malaysia
E-mail: 
rohayamfda@usm.my
Name: 
Wan Sharipahmira Mohd Zain
Organizational Affiliation: 
Centre for Global Sustainability Studies, Universiti Sains Malaysia
E-mail: 
wansharipahmira@usm.my
Format of project: 
Report
Language of project: 
English
Date of submission:
Wednesday, September 18, 2024
Does this project link to any education and/or sustainable development policy or policies?: 
No
Geographical & Education Information
Region: 
Asia-Pacific
Country: 
Malaysia
Location(s): 
Malaysia
Address of focal point institution for project: 
RCE Penang, Centre for Global Sustainability Studies (CGSS)
Level 5, Hamzah Sendut Library
Universiti Sains Malaysia 11800,
USM Penang, Malaysia
Ecosystem(s):
Coastal, Forest, Fresh water, Urban/Peri-urban
Target Audience:
Community, Higher, Primary, Secondary, Teacher Ed., Youth (Informal)
Socioeconomic and environmental characteristics of the area : 
The RCE Sejahtera Youth (RSY) initiative focuses on SDG 4: Quality Education by enhancing educational access and developing leadership skills among youth in Banda Aceh and Penang. Through training and mentorship programs, participants are empowered to lead educational initiatives, promoting lifelong learning and community education.

For SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, the program tackles water access and sanitation issues, particularly in rural and urban fringes. Participants engage in research and collaborations with experts to explore solutions, aiming to improve infrastructure and promote water conservation efforts in both regions.

Addressing SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, the initiative focuses on sustainable urban planning and community development. In Banda Aceh, post-tsunami rebuilding efforts provide a unique context for developing resilient infrastructure, while in Penang, balancing rapid urbanization with environmental conservation is crucial. The RSY equips youth with skills in strategic planning, resource management, and stakeholder engagement to ensure cities are inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.

Together, these SDGs guide the RSY initiative toward fostering not just individual empowerment, but systemic change in education, environmental sustainability, and urban resilience in both Banda Aceh and Penang.
Description of sustainable development challenge(s) in the area the project addresses: 
The RCE Sejahtera Youth (RSY) initiative addresses key sustainable development challenges in Banda Aceh and Penang, centered on SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, and SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.

Educational Gaps (SDG 4): Both regions face disparities in access to quality education, leadership development, and lifelong learning opportunities. There is a need for comprehensive training programs to cultivate a generation of leaders who can drive educational excellence and mentor younger students, fostering a culture of learning and empowerment.

Water and Sanitation Issues (SDG 6): Clean water access and sanitation remain pressing issues, particularly in underserved areas. RSY members engage in research to address these challenges, focusing on practical water conservation solutions, and sharing knowledge with primary school students to raise awareness and promote community involvement.

Sustainable Urban Development (SDG 11): Banda Aceh’s post-tsunami reconstruction and Penang’s rapid urbanization present challenges in urban planning and sustainable resource management. By training youth in project management and stakeholder engagement, the initiative enables RSY members to participate in urban sustainability efforts, focusing on building resilient and inclusive communities.

The project develops leadership skills and drives volunteerism, creating long-term impacts through education and sustainable practices at both local and global levels.
Contents
Status: 
Ongoing
Period: 
April, 2024 to May, 2025
Rationale: 
The RCE Sejahtera Youth (RSY) initiative, operating under the Regional Centre of Expertise (RCE) Penang at Universiti Sains Malaysia, is committed to advancing its mission of "Transforming and Empowering Communities for a Sustainable Future through Education and Learning." This project embodies RSY’s core agenda to develop a vibrant youth community and a broader society by fostering education, action, and volunteerism on both local and global scales. By advocating for SDGs 4 (Quality Education), 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), and 11 (sustainable cities and communities), RSY aims to empower its members with essential skills in leadership, research, knowledge transfer, and management. These competencies are crucial for developing effective change agents who can drive sustainable practices and solutions in their communities. SDG 4 is addressed by providing RSY members with advanced leadership and management training, enhancing their ability to lead educational initiatives and mentor younger students. This will enable them to foster a culture of lifelong learning and educational excellence. SDG 6 is supported through research activities that tackle local water and sanitation challenges. By involving RSY members in these projects, and subsequently sharing their insights with primary school students, the initiative promotes practical solutions and awareness about water conservation and sanitation. SDG 11 benefits from RSY's focus on sustainable urban planning and community development. Training in project management and stakeholder engagement equips RSY members to effectively contribute to urban sustainability projects and engage primary school students in these efforts. This project is designed to ensure long-term impact by developing the skills and commitment of both RSY members and primary school students. It aligns with RSY’s mission to lead by example and create a more sustainable future through education, action, and volunteerism, thereby driving meaningful change at both local and global levels.
Objectives: 
Advocate SDGs 4, 6, 11, 15 Among RCE Sejahtera Youth Members

Equip RCE Sejahtera Youth members with knowledge and practical experience on these SDGs through discussions, checklists, and real-world applications.
Promote Research Practice Among RCE Sejahtera Youth Members

Enhance research skills through workshops, site visits, and report writing on the adoption of the SDGs.
Develop Leadership Skills

Empower RCE Sejahtera Youth members with leadership abilities through training and creative projects like storybook writing and publishing.
Strengthen Knowledge Transfer Skills

Enable RCE Sejahtera Youth members to effectively disseminate SDG knowledge to primary school students through interactive workshops and storytelling.
Enhance Management Skills

Build management competencies by organizing competitions and exhibitions that showcase research findings and creative works.
Promote SDG Awareness Among Primary School Students

Engage students in understanding and applying SDGs through storybook creation, competitions, and interactive learning activities.
Activities and/or practices employed: 
The proposed project embodies an innovative approach to education through the Training of Trainers (ToT) model, focusing on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Initially, the RSY participants will undergo a comprehensive training on designated SDGs, equipping them with essential knowledge and skills. This foundational phase empowers them to critically engage with the subject matter, laying the groundwork for meaningful research ( subsequent activity) on SDG implementation within their campus.
Following their research, the RSY will conduct a thorough analysis of their findings, fostering analytical thinking and data interpretation skills. This research phase not only deepens their understanding of the SDGs but also encourages them to identify real-world applications. The culmination of their efforts will be the creation of a digitized storybook, which serves as a creative medium to share their insights and inspire others.
The following activity is presenting their research and storybook at two International Seminars in Acheh. This exercise will enhance their communication skills and provide a platform for a global dialogue. Furthermore, the subsequent year’s initiative to train primary school students reinforces the importance of mentorship and peer education, ensuring that the knowledge of SDGs is passed on. This multi-faceted learning experience cultivates a sense of responsibility and creativity, empowering participants to drive positive change in their communities.
Size of academic audience: 
100
Results: 
The major output of this project includes three storybooks written by RCE Sejahtera Youth members, along with their digitized versions, aimed at engaging young readers on critical topics related to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The storybooks are:

"The Adventure of Leo, Zara, and Aurora: The Great Water Warriors" – Focuses on educating children about water conservation.
"Cymbo’s Secret: The Hidden Power" – Explores the importance of sustainable resource use.
"The Solar-Powered Secret of Solaria" – Highlights the benefits of renewable energy.
Each book features captivating narratives and illustrations designed to inspire creativity and raise awareness about sustainability. The digitized versions expand accessibility, allowing students worldwide to benefit from these educational resources. This initiative aims to foster a sense of responsibility towards sustainable development among the younger generation.
Lessons learned: 
This project is dedicated to cultivating leadership, knowledge transfer, and management skills among RSY members to empower them as agents of sustainable change. By offering targeted training in leadership development, effective knowledge sharing, and strategic management, the initiative aims to build a new generation of skilled advocates. These future leaders will not only drive impactful community projects but also ensure that valuable knowledge and practices are passed down and implemented effectively. This approach fosters a cycle of growth and innovation, equipping RSY members to tackle challenges and lead their communities toward a more sustainable and prosperous future.
Key messages: 
The project cultivates leadership, knowledge transfer, and management skills among RCE Sejahtera Youth members, empowering them as agents of sustainable change. Through targeted training, members become skilled advocates, driving impactful community projects and fostering a cycle of growth and innovation for a more sustainable and prosperous future.
Relationship to other RCE activities: 
The project complements other RCE activities by enhancing the capacity of RCE Sejahtera Youth members, aligning with broader RCE goals of fostering sustainability through education and community engagement. It integrates with ongoing RCE initiatives by building leadership skills, promoting effective knowledge transfer, and supporting sustainable development practices, thereby reinforcing RCE's mission to create impactful and sustainable solutions.
Funding: 
University funding

Pictures:

File Name Caption for picture Photo Credit
Image icon IMG_5301.jpg (2.81 MB) Interview session with Kampus Sejahtera
Image icon IMG_8089.jpg (1.97 MB) Workshop on SDGs
Image icon IMG_8087.jpg (2.55 MB) Workshop on SDGs
UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
(https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/sdgs) and other themes of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD)
SDG 1 - End poverty in all its forms everywhere 
Indirect
SDG 2 - End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture 
Indirect
SDG 3 - Ensure healthy lives and promote wellbeing for all at all ages 
Indirect
SDG 4 - Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all 
Direct
SDG 5 - Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls 
Indirect
SDG 6 - Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all 
Direct
SDG 7 - Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all 
Indirect
SDG 8 - Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all 
Direct
SDG 9 - Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialisation, and foster innovation 
Indirect
SDG 10 - Reduce inequality within and among countries 
Indirect
SDG 11 - Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable 
Direct
SDG 12 - Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns 
Direct
SDG 13 - Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts 
Direct
SDG 14 - Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development 
Direct
SDG 15 - Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification and halt and reverse land degradation, and halt biodiversity loss 
Direct
SDG 16 - Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels 
Indirect
SDG 17 - Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalise the global partnership for sustainable development 
Direct
Theme
Disaster Risk Reduction 
Direct
Traditional Knowledge  
Direct
Agriculture 
Direct
Arts 
Direct
Curriculum Development 
Direct
Ecotourism 
Direct
Forests/Trees 
Direct
Plants & Animals 
Indirect
Waste 
Direct
ESD for 2030-Priority Action Areas
Priority Action Area 1 - Advancing policy 
state: 
Indirect
Priority Action Area 2 - Transforming learning and training environments 
state: 
Direct
Priority Action Area 3 - Developing capacities of educators and trainers 
state: 
Direct
Priority Action Area 4 - Mobilizing youth 
state: 
Direct
Priority Action Area 5 - Accelerating sustainable solutions at local level 
state: 
Direct
Update: 
No
I acknowledge the above: 
Yes