Partnership powers global green ambitions

A North East university is strengthening its global education links with a new international sustainability initiative.

The University of Sunderland has announced plans with the Management Development Institute of Singapore (MDIS) to launch the MDIS-University of Sunderland Centre for Applied Sustainability Research and Innovation.

The project was unveiled during the Innovate for a Green Future event in Singapore, attended by Sir David Bell, vice-chancellor and chief executive of the University of Sunderland, as the two institutions marked 20 years of partnership.

Officials say The Centre will support Singapore’s Green Plan 2030 and its target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

They add it aims to become Asia’s leading hub for applied sustainability innovation, connecting academic research with real-world business practice.

Sir David Bell said: “The launch of this Centre is a landmark moment for the University of Sunderland. 

“It represents the first time we are extending cross-border research cooperation in sustainability to Singapore and the wider Asian region, extending the reach and impact of our work well beyond the UK.

“By partnering with MDIS, we are not only sharing our expertise but also shaping practical solutions that address the urgent demands of businesses and communities in this part of the world. 

“This collaboration puts University of Sunderland firmly on the global map as a leading institution in sustainability research and innovation, and reflects our commitment to creating knowledge that changes lives on an international scale.”

The Centre’s research focus will span circular manufacturing, resilient supply chains, green business transformation and sustainable tourism.

Building on a partnership that already delivers Sunderland-accredited programmes across Asia, the new Centre reflects a shared commitment to developing sustainability-driven education and nurturing future global leaders in environmental innovation.

Dr Eric Kuan, president of MDIS, added: “As Singapore’s first private education institution to establish the MDIS–Sunderland Centre for Applied Sustainability Research and Innovation, dedicated to advancing sustainability research and application, MDIS is taking the lead in setting the trend for how private education institutions and industry can work together to address one of the most pressing challenges of our time.

“Sustainability is no longer a choice but a necessity for businesses that want to remain competitive and resilient. 

“Through this Centre, we aim to pioneer applied research and practical solutions that will enable enterprises and SMEs to transform with confidence, while equipping the workforce with the green skills needed for the future economy. 

“This is about more than education; it is about creating real-world impact for Singapore and beyond.”

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