Singapore Management University, Singapore

SMU-X: Pioneering next generation learning and skills for a sustainable green economy

Singapore Management University (SMU) is committed to infusing sustainability into its curriculum, equipping future leaders to address urgent environmental and societal issues. At the heart of this commitment is SMU-X, an institution-wide experiential learning program based on industry projects.

 Through SMU-X, students, faculty, and industry collaborators join forces on practical projects, delivering innovative solutions to business, social, and emerging challenges. Utilizing SMU-X to deepen our sustainability ethos, the program empowers students with the requisite knowledge, skills, and mindset to excel as leaders in sustainability-focused sectors.

By bridging academia and industry, SMU-X enhances the learning journey and promotes sustainable practices and solutions that enrich both the community and industry partners.

What the Judges Thought

An ambitious but practical, project-based learning model that integrates academic education in a real-world context on and beyond the campus. The direct connection with the work force and engagement with local communities provides high quality education, and the creation of a replicable and scalable model of a diverse network that supports learning, research and true sustainability outcomes. The judges were swayed by the social impacts such as diversity and inclusion, not just environmental and economic underpinnings of sustainability demonstrated by the projects.

What it Means to Win

"We are delighted to be recognised for our innovative pedagogical approach that emphasises real-world problem solving, working with public and private sectors partners to prepare our students to be future change leaders capable of addressing real-world sustainability challenges and driving positive environmental and social change."

Professor Lily Kong, President

Top 3 Learnings

1. Building strong partnerships with industry leaders enhances learning outcomes and fosters real-world application.
2. We learned the importance of flexibility, allowing us to quickly adjust to industry needs and trends.
3. Integrating sustainability into projects not only benefits the environment but also sparks innovation and creativity.