The Hong Kong Polytechnic University is proud to be the regional co-host (APAC) of the Times Higher Education (THE) Global Sustainable Development Congress 2026 (GSDC) to be held in Jakarta, Indonesia from 22 – 25 June 2026. The Congress, convened by Times Higher Education, aims to bring together research, business, government and higher education to accelerate sustainable transformation. Over four days, global leaders share ideas, build partnerships and explore how collaboration and innovation can drive real progress. From high-level summits to interactive workshops, the congress connects industry, policymakers and universities to translate ambition into action and advance sustainable development worldwide.
PolyU Sessions
Traditional models of innovation often focus on economic growth, efficiency and technological advancement. While these approaches have produced important gains, they can also reinforce unsustainable systems if social and environmental consequences are overlooked. Sustainable development therefore demands a broader understanding of innovation and one that integrates ecological resilience, social justice and long-term wellbeing.
During this discussion, we will hear from the higher education perspective on the investment, talent and collaboration needed to drive the next era of development.
- How is higher education aligning innovation with the global goals?
- What are the current barriers that slow transformative innovation?
- How are researchers considering the ethical, political and social dimensions of their work?
- What policies are needed to support sustainable transformation?
Moderator :
This session explores practical pathways to decarbonise industrial value chains by integrating urban energy systems, circular production strategies and technology enabled transparency. Speakers will highlight scalable approaches in energy innovation, resource efficiency and cross sector collaboration, outlining how academia and the industry can jointly accelerate low carbon transitions and deliver measurable sustainability impact.
- Urban energy systems as a catalyst for industrial decarbonisation
- Applying circular principles to industrial design and production
- Leveraging technology & data for transparency and impact
- Building effective academia–industry–government partnerships
Moderator :
- Prof. Ben Young, Vice President (Student and Global Affairs); Chair Professor of Steel Structures at PolyU
Panellists :
- Prof. Erin Cho, Dean of the School of Fashion and Textiles; Limin Professor in Integrated Strategies and Leadership in Fashion at PolyU
- Prof. Jerry Yan, Chair Professor of Energy and Buildings at PolyU
Universities are increasingly seeking ways to embed sustainability and social responsibility into their teaching, research and community engagement in ways that produce measurable learning outcomes and real impact. This session presents strategic insights and practical lessons drawn from integrated and multi-faceted frameworks that advance sustainability and social responsibility within the university context.
Drawing on examples from PolyU, which has implemented a mandatory Service-Learning framework and campus-wide sustainability initiatives, Professor Ben Young, Vice-President of Student and Global Affairs, will share concrete cases of students, faculty and external partners working together on authentic environmental and social challenges. Delegates will gain clear, adaptable insights into structures and approaches that are both impactful and scalable.
- Practical strategies for embedding sustainability and social responsibility throughout university curricula, research, and campus activities
- How structured Service-Learning equips students to address real environmental and social challenges
- Sustainable partnership models with stakeholders at local, national, and global levels to amplify collaborative impact
Speaker :
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Prof. Ben Young, Vice President (Student and Global Affairs); Chair Professor of Steel Structures at PolyU
Fashion has always been a dynamic force shaping culture, identity, and community. This session explores how innovative and forward-thinking approaches can unlock significant advancements toward a sustainable future—both within the fashion industry and beyond.
- How can education in fashion cultivate mindsets that address societal needs, support community well-being, and inspire positive change?
- How can emerging AI technologies be harnessed to promote more responsible decision-making across industries?
- How can research, innovation, and industry partnerships collectively drive impactful results and strengthen our contributions to global sustainability goals?
Speaker :
- Prof. Erin Cho, Dean of the School of Fashion and Textiles; Limin Professor in Integrated Strategies and Leadership in Fashion at PolyU
As the world accelerates its transition to a low-carbon energy future, the need for closer collaboration between universities, industry, and government has never been more urgent. This panel will explore how the “triple helix” model can unlock scalable energy solutions by aligning academic research, industrial innovation, and policy frameworks. Panellists will discuss how strategic partnerships, cutting-edge research, and regulations can together drive systemic change in energy systems—reducing emissions, enhancing resilience, and delivering real-world climate impact.
- Exploring best practices, collaborative R&D models that can unlock innovation and accelerate deployment of low-carbon energy technologies
- What are the emerging research areas in energy sustainability?
- Insights from energy innovation hubs, research centres, and transnational initiatives
Panelists :
- Prof. Jerry Yan, Chair Professor of Energy and Buildings at PolyU
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Mr. Jefferson Kuesar, Chief Executive Officer at SUN Energy
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Prof. Ir. Sarjiya Sarjiya, Director, Centre for Energy Studies at Gadjah Mada University
- Ms. Nevi Winofa, Analyst at Rystad Energy
Visit Our Exhibition Booth
Booth Number: B1
Booth Location: East Zone, Hall 3/3A, G/F
Address: Indonesia Convention Exhibition, Jakarta, Indonesia
