Third GSN International Conference Advances Global SDG Collaboration at Centurion University

Centurion University, in collaboration with Curtin University, successfully hosted the Third GSN International Conference from January 23 to 25, 2024. The conference, held at Centurion University’s Bhubaneswar Campus, brought together leading experts, scholars, and professionals to deliberate on the theme, “Creating Responsible Professionals for Advancing SDGs: Inputs from Global North and South.”

The conference opened with a welcome note, followed by the Vice-Chancellor of Centurion University, Odisha, Dr Supriya Pattanayak, officially inaugurating the event. The plenary session featured insights from Prof. Shahed Khan, Adjunct Professor at Curtin University, Australia, who discussed the challenges and responsibilities of achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The first day included engaging panel discussions, keynote speeches, and multiple thematic sessions, with a special focus on Sustainable Waste Management and Green Technologies, Social Inclusion and Governance, Sustainable Health and Future Medical Technologies, Integrating Sustainability into Education, and Sustainable Urban Planning and Community Development.

The day also featured thought-provoking presentations from esteemed speakers, including Atiq Zaman from Curtin University addressing the global waste crisis, Mrinali Tikare and Akhilesh Yadav discussing a study on waste management by Stree Mukti Sanghatana, Zahra Amrollahi exploring the implementation of SDGs in the solar PV value chain, and Benjamin Gazeau shedding light on enhancing plastic circularity through quality and traceability protocols.

The second day of the conference delved into topics such as Sustainable Livelihood Security, Capacity Building of Grassroots Functionaries, Assessing the Employment Status of Transgender Persons, and how institutions like Thamarrurr Youth in Australia and Centurion University in India are redefining education for reduced inequalities and inclusivity.

The conference also featured a special side event by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), highlighting zero-waste circular economy approaches in material transition, with a focus on examining material shift options away from conventional plastics in specific sectors.

In her address during the conference, the Vice-Chancellor expressed appreciation for the diverse discussions and collaborations that took place, emphasizing the importance of academia, industry, and communities working together to address global challenges and contribute to sustainable development.

The Third GSN International Conference at Centurion University served as a platform for meaningful discussions, knowledge sharing, and the exploration of innovative solutions towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals. The success of the conference underscores the commitment of Centurion University and its partners to fostering responsible professionals and advancing sustainable development globally.