In May 2023, KAUST, in partnership with King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center (KAPSARC), organized the micro-credential course “Sustainability: Principles and Practice.”
The sustainability course was designed for working professionals who want to broaden their sustainability knowledge. It aligns with Vision 2030’s objective of increasing employment to build a thriving economy and a vibrant society.
Held from May 21-25, 2023, at KAPSARC in Riyadh, the course allowed 40 selected participants with different backgrounds and from nine ministries to exercise creative and critical thinking skills, expand their technical knowledge and historical understanding of the global sustainability movement, and apply the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in their careers.
It provided a multiscale and interdisciplinary approach to sustainability. By emphasizing the connections between environmental, social, and economic aspects of sustainable development, learners developed competencies that inspired them to continue their professional development as professionals and forward-thinking leaders in pursuing sustainability within society.
The course consisted of five sessions and covered the following topics: sustainability in action; climate change and sustainability; socio-economics of sustainability; sustainability governance; ethics and policy; stakeholders, and public engagement for sustainability.
Those who attended have seen an improved ability to critically evaluate the complex drivers and consequences of global sustainability challenges, identify relevant assessment tools and methodologies to evaluate or generate sustainability projects and policies, and apply a multidisciplinary systems approach to sustainability by incorporating environmental, social, and economic dimensions in project management.
“I am in the field of sustainability and climate change, and I’ve been to too many courses in my life (nationally and internationally). This course was literally the best among all”, said Adnan Alalayani, Director of Environmental Technology at the National Center for Environmental Compliance, “I have widened my network connections with very high caliber people and I also learned a lot of things that will definitely reform my decisions in the future.”
Solving the world’s most pressing challenges requires collaboration across sectors and industries, and government professionals have a pivotal role in driving policies and frameworks that foster collaboration. By gaining an understanding of the interconnectedness of sustainability, participants return to the job market better equipped to make a positive impact in their roles.
“The course allowed learners to explore system thinking approaches to sustainability, giving them key competencies to contribute to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 and the attainment of the UN Sustainable Development Goals”, said Dr. Ana Margarida Costa, Head of Sustainability at KAUST, who led the co-organization of the program.
By partnering with KAPSARC on the delivery of this course, KAUST contributes to SDG 17- Partnerships for the Goals and cements its commitment to deliver lifelong learning opportunities for all, further contributing to SDG 4 – Quality Education.
Learn more about how KAUST is equipping Students to address sustainability challenges.
