Report on MIU 1st Conference on Sustainable Development Goals 2030

20 Feb 2024

On Saturday, February 17, 2024, MIU held its 1st conference on Sustainable Development Goals 2030. The conference was held on MIU premises under the title “Creating a Sustainable Future: Innovations, Challenges and Opportunities”.

This initiative reflects the university’s commitment to raising awareness about the significance of sustainable development and bolstering its standing in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, which evaluates universities based on their contributions towards attaining the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Distinguished by vibrant engagement, the conference witnessed active participation from university faculty, students, and alumni. Participants from various academic institutions and research bodies, including the American University in Cairo, Ain Shams University, Alexandria University, the Egyptian Medicine Authority, the National Research Center, the Ministry of Communications, and the Young Leaders Foundation also joined the conference.

The conference attracted esteemed figures from diverse fields who imparted invaluable insights to support MIU’s journey towards excellence in sustainable development. Prof. Dr. Mohamed Diaa Zein Al-Abidin, President of Ain Shams University, Prof. Dr. Abdel Nasser Sinjab, a member of the tripartite committee managing the Pharmacists Syndicate, and Prof. Dr. Ayman Al-Khatib, Vice President of the Egyptian Medicines Authority, were among the attendees. Experts from the National Research Center and sustainability specialists from Giza Systems, a leading digital transformation company, also participated in the sessions.

The conference emphasized the importance of integrating the SDGs into academic curricula and equipping students with leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills to empower them to serve the community. Furthermore, the sessions spotlighted eco-friendly initiatives and practices undertaken by the university and governmental bodies across sectors.

In her opening speech, the University President urged scholars to address various SDGs, transcending their disciplinary boundaries. This call underscored the significance of collective efforts in achieving holistic sustainability.

The conference contributed to spreading awareness of the importance of sustainable development and the university’s role in achieving it by reviewing the university’s achievements in response to many goals, providing a platform for exchanging knowledge and experiences between researchers in different fields.

Several recommendations were made by the participants and attendees, including a suggestion to hold this event annually due to its transformative impact on education and research.

On the sidelines of the conference, the university hosted an exhibition showcasing handmade products, clothing, and accessories branded by university alumni and students. The event aimed to foster entrepreneurship, and cultivate a spirit of innovation among students by supporting their small projects.

A survey was sent to the attendees after the event to measure their satisfaction with the conference. The responses were generally positive, affirming the rich content presented in the sessions and the excellent organization of the event.

MIU’s 1st conference on SDGs is a significant stride towards advancing sustainable development in Egypt and emphasizing the essential role of universities in community service.