New Delhi, 23rdSeptember, 2024: The sixth edition of the International Conference on Sustainability Education (ICSE) 2024, organised by the Mobius Foundation, successfully concluded after two days of inspiring dialogues and collaborative discussions aimed at advancing sustainability education worldwide. With the theme ‘Greening Education for a Sustainable Future,’ the conference brought together global thought leaders, educators, scientists, and policymakers to explore the urgent need to transform educational frameworks to address critical environmental challenges.
The presence and messages of esteemed dignitaries like Hon’ble Minister of Education, Mr. Dharmendra Pradhan, Hon’ble Minister of State for Education, Mr. Choudhary Jayant Singh, and Mr. Tim Curtis, Director and Representative, UNESCO New Delhi, South Asia Regional Office, were truly inspiring and uplifting, offering invaluable perspectives and reinforcing the collective commitment to advancing sustainability education.
Held over two days, September 19 and 20, 2024, at India Habitat Centre, New Delhi, the conference was a deep dive into how education can serve as the pathway to creating a more sustainable future. Mr. Ram Boojh, Advisor, Mobius Foundation, in his welcome address showcased how this 6th edition of the event was built on the solid foundation set by the previous five. Building on this in his address, Mr. Pradip Burman, Chairman, Mobius Foundation, highlighted the crucial role of education in fostering sustainable development.
ICSE 2024 fostered thought leadership and collaboration, bringing together global experts and educators to share insights and best practices. It underscored the need for academic institutions, government bodies, and civil society to work in unison to integrate sustainability into the fabric of education, thereby empowering future generations to become environmental stewards and address challenges proactively.
The 11 plenary sessions, 11 parallel Samvad sessions, and technical track over the two days facilitated insightful conversations on a range of topics, from the integration of AI and technology in sustainability education to the role of circular economy practices in mitigating environmental degradation. The vibrant exchange of ideas and experiences among delegates created a fertile ground for new collaborations and innovative strategies. ICSE 2024 not only sparked meaningful dialogue but also laid the groundwork for ongoing efforts to transform education and foster a generation of leaders committed to building a sustainable and resilient future.
One of the conference’s focal points was the emergence of green jobs and the importance of skilling the youth for these high-impact sectors. Discussions highlighted the urgent need to align educational curricula with the demands of a green economy, equipping students with the skills necessary to thrive in industries such as renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and waste management. Experts emphasised the role of responsible tourism and innovative entrepreneurial ventures in contributing to sustainable development, urging young professionals to lead with purpose and responsibility.
ICSE 2024 concluded with a renewed call to action for educators, policymakers, private industry, and students to collaboratively shape a sustainable future. It highlighted the role of education in addressing the global environmental crisis and inspired participants to champion sustainable development through innovative educational practices.