Van Lang University Spreads the Message of Sustainable Development through the Workshop “Breakthrough with Leaders”

Our planet is facing critical challenges as population growth accelerates and the environment becomes increasingly burdened. In this context, sustainable development has emerged as a top priority for countries and organizations worldwide. In 2015, the United Nations (UN) introduced the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aimed at addressing key issues across three dimensions: Environment, Society, and Economy. These goals serve as a guiding framework for nations and enterprises globally in their quest to eradicate poverty, improve living standards and welfare for all, promote an inclusive society, and reverse environmental degradation.

Recognizing the significance of these goals, Van Lang University (VLU) places a strong emphasis on integrating sustainable development into all aspects of operations. Since 2020, the University has actively engaged in the ranking system by Times Higher Education (THE) in the UK, which assesses universities based on their success in achieving the UN’s SDGs. By 2022, VLU had contributed over 51,475 hours of community service through activities conducted by lecturers, staff, and administrators, and initiated more than 650 student-led projects aligned with 17 SDGs, showcasing VLU’s strong commitment to promoting sustainable development.

As part of its efforts to advance 17 SDGs, VLU has incorporated this message into its 2024 Team Building programme through the Workshop “Breakthrough with Leaders.” Held from August 2-4 and August 10-12, 2024, the event attracted nearly 1,000 participants including VLU’s leaders, lecturers, and staff members. This workshop aimed to foster team spirit and to deepen participants’ understanding of the SDGs and their contribution to the sustainable development efforts at the University.
 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tran Thi My Dieu, President of VLU, stated: “At Van Lang, we strive for consistency and close collaboration in realizing the Sustainable Development Goals, working together for a peaceful and equitable world for all by 2030. We are committed to developing activities that encompass all 17 goals, as we believe each goal is significant and interconnected, contributing to our global mission. This mission is not the responsibility of any single individual or department but of all members of VLU.”

Under the guidance of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tran Thi My Dieu and Dr. Nguyen Huu Cuong, Director of the Quality Assurance Department, participants had the opportunity to explore each SDG in-depth and assess the sustainable development activities that VLU has engaged in over the years. This comprehensive review not only highlighted the University’s strengths but also identified areas for improvement, focusing on creating sustainable value for the Van Lang ecosystem and delivering positive impacts for the community moving forward.

Participants, including leaders, lecturers, and staff members were grouped to discuss and present over 120 feasible ideas regarding initiatives that VLU can adopt to contribute to all sustainable development goals. The most promising ideas will be considered for implementation in the 2024-2025 academic year.

Amid global environmental and social challenges, VLU remains steadfast in making  positive contributions towards achieving the 17 SDGs of the UN. The “Breakthrough with Leaders” workshop has become a significant milestone where all members of the Van Lang community can delve deeper into understanding and drive specific actions to realize these goals. Beyond fostering team spirit, the workshop also serves as a launchpad for innovative ideas, contributing to the sustainable development of both the Van Lang ecosystem and the surrounding community.

With the message “Spread Impact, Inspire Action,” Van Lang University aspires to connect and share sustainable values through concrete actions. Together, we are building a sustainable world through education and action, as Van Lang believes that today’s responsibilities shape the future for generations to come.