WHAT WE OFFER
The Middlesex Institute of Sustainable Development fosters the advancement of sustainability into the university, community and global practices. Through outreach, research and training, ISD is a thought leader in sustainability advocating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations.
The objectives of ISD are to strengthen stakeholder collaboration by aligning academic knowledge and professional practice and by promoting partnerships with businesses, civil society and government to reach a sustainable future.
Activities of ISD include:
- Collaborative research with businesses, government and UN agencies
- Best practice consulting and corporate training workshops
- Sustainability Mindset Training and Community Outreach Programmes
- Promoting sustainable best practices
- Customised Certificate Programmes for specific industries
- Industry Round Tables with a focus on ESG
We have a particular focus on developing the ‘Sustainable Mindset’ through ESG strategy development, providing corporate training and delivering programs that culminate in community outreach programs in the MENA region.
To work collaboratively with Middlesex University in Dubai, please contact:
Andrew Mackenzie
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: +971 (0)4 4331772
MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR
Professor Cedwyn Fernandes PhD
(Pro-Vice Chancellor, Director)
Middlesex University Dubai is proud to be the first university in the UAE to report the sustainability practices of the entire campus to the United Nations Global Compact Local Network UAE. We are committed to the principles of sustainable development. Supporting the vision of the UAE Federal Government and the UAE National Committee on Sustainable Development, Middlesex University Dubai recognizes the importance of taking action to implement the sustainable development goals (SDGs). The university’s commitment is demonstrated through our membership to the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC). Middlesex University Dubai is also a signatory of the WEPs (Women Empowerment Principles) Taskforce of United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) and UN Women as creating a gender equal workplace, marketplace and community is our goal.The outstanding involvement of our faculty, administrative staff and students to advance the implementation of the SDGs within the university and the international community is visible in our university structure, curricula, research and student experience.
MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD
Andrew Mackenzie MBA SFHEA
(Senior Lecturer, Head of Institute of Sustainable Development)
Middlesex University Dubai is committed to a sustainable and inclusive environment for our students, staff and community. Our Institute of Sustainable Development (ISD) is responsible for the planning, implementation and evaluation of the sustainability program. Working closely with internal and external stakeholders the ISD, develop and design sustainable solutions by aligning our objectives with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Addressing these goals in a local context, Middlesex University Dubai will contribute to internal, local and global sustainability practices. It’s important to note that sustainability addresses society, equality, economy and the environment with the ultimate goal to meet our current needs while we also address those of future generations. Environmental management and sustainability is about ensuring we use precious resources wisely and efficiently, while reducing our impact on finite resources.
UN Global Compact Report
As a member of the UN Global Compact, the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative, Middlesex University Dubai shows its commitment to creating a just and prosperous world by being the first university in the UAE to report campus-wide activities towards the sustainable development goals and principles
The Institute of Sustainable Development presents below the Communication on Engagement (COE) Report submitted to the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) showing how Middlesex University Dubai embeds sustainable development goals and principles in operations, curricula, research and student experience.
MDX community unites to find sustainable solutions in fashion and food at new festival in Dubai Knowledge Park
On Monday 20 March and Tuesday 21 March 2023, the Institute of Sustainable Development was extremely proud to launch For The Love Of The Planet, our brand new two-day festival putting the UAE’s future leaders at the heart of student-driven solutions to the issues of sustainable fashion, food sustainability and developing a circular economy.
Designed to support the UAE in achieving its ambitious goals ahead of its hosting of COP28 in November 2023, the event was supported by an exciting host of industry guests. The agenda was designed to uphold our community’s sustainability objectives, help visitors build knowledge through education, and promote ‘thinking differently’ when it comes to combatting climate change.
Day 1 of the event focused on the concept of sustainable fashion, putting students into contact with inspirational businesses and organisations who are pioneering ways to upcycle existing clothing and pre-loved items and keep more textiles away from landfill.
The event was opened by Jade Povey, Thrift For Good's Community Engagement Officer, who explained how they resell or quality clothes or upcycle, but also how all preloved items, socks with holes or materials that are not resalable, but are repurposed often in mattresses or carpets, keeping all the clothes they receive out of landfill.
Students had the opportunity to get practical and try their hand at ways to upcycle their favourite clothes. Tasneem Nawab from social entreprise Zaish Denim, which specialises in supporting and lifting up artists and artisans through ethical, handcrafted products, visited campus to lead a denim customisation workshop. Ellie Collins, Creative Director of vintage thrift shop Fashion Rerun, brought in some of their collections, which students used in a fast-paced and competitive styling competition to promote the purchase of second hand instead of fast fashion clothing. Thrift For Good also joined forces with us to show students how they can turn old t-shirts into fashionable, usable tote bags.
The workshops demonstrated the creativity and ingenuity that can be found when upcycling clothes, and our students learnt how they can style pre-loved items to express themselves and their personality, while reducing the environmental impact of fashion as an industry.
The day also featured a lively clothes drive, which encouraged students and staff to avoid sending their unused clothes and other items to landfill. All students and community members are encouraged to continue to bring clothes and textiles to campus. Collection boxes are available in Block 15 and 16, Dubai Knowledge Park.
Day 2 of the event, under the theme of the circular economy, saw a wide range of activities ranging from sustainable business solutions focusing on sustainable food systems through to Environmental, Social and Governance best practices, as well as sustainable business funding. A contest was held to create the design for a t-shirt made entirely of fibres generated from recycled plastic bottles, highlighting the practical application of the concepts championed by the event’s key themes.
A riveting address from guest speaker Malachi Halliday of The Halliday Group provided valuable insight into current and future trends of business financing. Mallachi also shared his top tips for entrepreneurs who are looking to navigate the complexities of modern business on a global scale.
Particularly relevant to the UAE’s National Food Security Strategy 2051, a panel discussion on the topic of sustainable food systems took place between distinguished local entrepreneurs and business leaders including Adele Repas (Nutritionist), Iman Suguitan (Cofounder of Co Chocolat), and Daniel Solomon (Cofounder of HeroGo and MDX Dubai alumni). Real-world insights were shared which gave students and other attendees an incredibly valuable look into how businesses are addressing food sustainability challenges right now, demonstrating the viability of business solutions that combine good values with profitability.
A diverse range of sustainability-focused businesses exhibited at the event to educate attendees on the varied business solutions to sustainability. These included Adele Repas Nutritionist, Co Chocolat, HeroGo, DGrade, D K Hot Sauce, Daroora, Enviroserve, Nuttino, Organiq Living, ReLoop, Satori Apothecary, and Skinny Genie.
Our students also showcased their work in sustainability throughout the event in mediums such as fashion, digital media, video, business and design, highlighting the integration of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in their respective curricula. Brilliant student presentations were an inspiration to see, with students demonstrating a passion for the future and being proactively part of solutions that added a great energy to the festival’s activities.
The event could not have been as successful as it was without the amazing contribution from the organisers: Andrew Mackenzie, Margo Tummel, Vaishali Raj Sharma, Rory McConnon, Claudia Maher, Anna Ro, Ryan Kenneth Stephenson, Marian Fletcher, Sai Gayatri Nainani and Slamet Suprianto.
Learn more about For The Love Of The Planet here.
Middlesex University Dubai supports the #HeForShe initiative
Middlesex University Dubai is proud to be one of the first universities in Dubai to support the #HeForShe initiative for gender equality. The campaign was organised by our Media Students and Club Impact and featured guest speaker Raha Moharrak, the first Saudi woman to Climb Mount Everest. Dr Cedwyn Fernandes, Director of Middlesex University Dubai, along with other faculty members, signed the pledge for gender equality on behalf of the University.
The event saw several activities, performances and speeches, including an Instagram photo booth whereby students and staff were encouraged to have their photograph taken after they’d taken their pledge to support the campaign, initiated by UN Women. Guest speaker Raha Moharrak then gave an impassionate and powerful talk about the importance of chasing your dreams and being fearless regardless of your background and gender.
As a result of the hard work of our students, Maha Waseem, Daniel Shepherd and Arwa Kharawala, 324 pledges have been made on the official HeForShe website as a result of their attempt to raise awareness.
To find out more about the HeForShe initiative, visit http://www.heforshe.org/en.
Technology in Sustainability: the case of Dubai Sustainable City
The Institute of Sustainable Development hosted Philip Sinclair, an experienced IT leader, for a Guest lecture on “Technology in Sustainability: the case of Dubai Sustainable City” to celebrate the UN World Cities Day.
Not only does Philip enjoy living in Dubai Sustainable City, but he also initiated the collaboration between the City, Google Cloud Platform, Snaplogic and Shift Technologies providing innovative methods to help the City gain better insights from its Sustainability data.
“Dubai Sustainable City is an inspiring example of what the future could look like,” shares Khadija Abubakar, a MA International Relations student who attended the event.
As the first operational Net Zero Energy city in Dubai, The Sustainable City is modelled to become an international showcase for sustainable living, work, education, and recreation.
For more information on the MA International Relations and MA Global Governance and Sustainable Development programmes, please visit http://www.mdx.ac.ae/courses/school-of-law/politics-and-international-relations
For more information on the Institute of Sustainable Development, please visit: https://www.mdx.ac.ae/isd or contact Dr Belisa Marochi on [email protected]
Lecturers and students present at Forum on Zayed and Social Responsibility
The Institute of Sustainable Development represented Middlesex University Dubai at the “Forum on Zayed and Social Responsibility” at Abu Dhabi University. Dr Belisa Marochi, Head of the Institute, presented the Communication on Engagement (COE) report submitted to the UN Global Compact (UNGC) and the university progress towards a sustainable future. Lecturers Dr Andrew Mackenzie, Rory McConnon and Dr Anthony Murphy also participated in a panel discussing social responsibility of higher education institutions.
Twelve students representing the BA International Politics, MA International Relations and MA Global Governance and Sustainable Development also attended the event.
"The Forum was a great initiative. It was very nice to hear various universities explaining their role in university social responsibility." Salma Shanni, MA International Relations student shared. "It was very insightful, informative and eye-opening, ” Sherwet Mohamed, BA International Politics student added.
For more information on the MA International Relations and MA Global Governance and Sustainable Development programmes, please visit http://www.mdx.ac.ae/courses/school-of-law/politics-and-international-relations
For more information on the Institute of Sustainable Development, please visit: https://www.mdx.ac.ae/isd or contact Dr Belisa Marochi on [email protected]
Corporate Social Responsibility Masterclass invites private sector to celebrate the Year of Zayed
The Institute of Sustainable Development invited fifty participants from the private sector, civil society and students to a Corporate Social Sustainability (CSR) Masterclass to celebrate the Year of Zayed. Nicole Malick, Visiting Lecturer in the School of Law, and Dr Belisa Marochi, Head of the Institute of Sustainable Development taught the importance of the private sector in reaching a sustainable world in this half-day Masterclass.
Representatives from Emirates, Dubai Airports, Khaleej Times, NRS International and other companies attended the event. “The CSR Masterclass provided an excellent overview of sustainability as a topic, in a fun, informal way. I enjoyed networking with other guests and interacting with the lecturers. I look forward to attending future events in the same vein,” shared Annie Meikle, Director, Social Shop by Aurora.
The Institute of Sustainable Development fosters the advancement of sustainable development into the university, community and global practices. Through outreach, research and training, ISD is a thought leader in sustainability advocating for the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
For more information on the MA International Relations and MA Global Governance and Sustainable Development programmes, please visit http://www.mdx.ac.ae/courses/school-of-law/politics-and-international-relations
To register in the Institute of Sustainable Development, please visit: https://www.mdx.ac.ae/isd or contact Dr Belisa Marochi on [email protected]
Guest lecture marks the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women
The Institute of Sustainable Development hosted a guest lecture by Abdulrahman Mohammed, a LLB student at the Middlesex University Dubai to mark the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on 25 November. Lecturer Donya Saberi and Dr Belisa Marochi, Head of the Institute of Sustainable Development, hosted Abdulrahman who addressed more than 60 International Foundation Programme (IFP) students on the role of the performing arts in raising awareness on the issue of violence against women.
Abdulrahman Mohamed is passionate about promoting social justice through the arts by creating shock value and an emotional impact on the audience. Throughout the years, he has directed plays and participated in a range of performances, varying from plays, musicals, one-acts, and choirs.
The Institute of Sustainable Development (ISD) at Middlesex University Dubai fosters the advancement of sustainable development into the university, community and global practices. Through outreach, research and training, ISD is a thought leader in sustainability advocating for the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). An important objective of the institute and of Middlesex University Dubai is to empower students through engagement and through encouraging them to contribute to initiatives.
For more information the Institute of Sustainable Development, please visit: https://www.mdx.ac.ae/isd or contact Dr Belisa Marochi on [email protected]
Experts from Norway present to MA International Relations students
The Institute of Sustainable Development hosted Zan Strabac, Professor of Sociology at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Trondheim, Norway for a guest lecture titled “International Migrations of Low-Skilled Labour: The Case of Norway.” The lecture presented the main economic and social causes of global migratory pressures and an overview of migrations of labour to Norway. The lecture also focused on main migratory trends, Norway’s policies and on social and economic outcomes of immigration and the securitisation of migration.
Students and lecturers from the MA International Relations and MA Global Governance and Sustainable Development at Middlesex University Dubai attended the lecture. Mahine Rizvi Ahmad, lecturer in Politics, hosted the lecture as part of the Global Security module in the Masters programmes.
Dr Belisa Marochi, Head of the Institute of Sustainable Development and Senior Lecturer in International Relations shared: “This is the third year in a row we host professors from Norwegian University of Science and Technology to present on their expertise. Exposing students to international guest lecturers is an important part of the student experience at our university.”
For more information on the MA International Relations and MA Global Governance and Sustainable Development programmes, please visit http://www.mdx.ac.ae/courses/school-of-law/politics-and-international-relations
To register in the Institute of Sustainable Development, please visit: https://www.mdx.ac.ae/isd or contact Dr Belisa Marochi on [email protected]
Masdar City Field Trip for DCEI students
Middlesex University Dubai students from the Department of Computer Engineering and Informatics accompanied by Dr. Krishnadas Nanath visited Masdar City on 7th December 2015. Students not only witnessed latest technologies in Sustainability, but also gained insights into building structures that reduce carbon emissions naturally. This trip was a part of Project Management and Strategic Management courses and it was an attempt for students to think in the lines of environmental sustainability in their projects. Masdar is on a mission to advance the clean energy industry in Abu Dhabi and around the world, and it is a catalyst for the economic diversification of the emirate. Masdar institute works in collaboration with MIT for executing courses on sustainability.
Dr Belisa Marochi participates in a panel discussion on Data for Good: Impact Metrics
Dr Belisa Marochi, Head of the Institute of Sustainable Development, recently participated in a panel discussion on 'Data for Good: Impact Metrics' along with Malik al-Madani, from Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority (FCSA), Kate Willoughby from DP World, and Felicie Degonfreville from Societe Generale, in an event organised by AmpUZ, Goumbook and Area 2071. Dozens of companies along with students and Alumni of the MA Global Governance and Sustainable Development and MA International Relations also attended the event.
The event brought dialogues on impact data to the mainstream highlighting the need for data collection and dissemination in order to reach the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The discussion also advocated for more 'data driven stories' to be shared by companies across the UAE.
Ayla Bajwa, Founder of AmpUZ, commented 'the Data for Good: Impact Metrics panel brought together a dynamic line up of speakers to share their insights and experiences around data for the Sustainable Development Goals'.
The Institute of Sustainable Development at Middlesex University Dubai is committed to collaborating with government, civil society, businesses and the youth in order to reach the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
For more information on our programmes visit www.mdx.ac.ae/pg
MDX Dubai presents at the FCSA consultation to the Private Sector Council on Goal 5 Gender Equality
The Secretariat of the National Committee on SDGs in coordination with the UAE Gender Balance Council organized a dialogue session between government policy-makers and private sector senior executives on Goal 5 Gender Equality. Dr Belisa Marochi, Head of Institute of Sustainable Development, was invited to represent Middlesex University Dubai.
The dialogue session was an opportunity for the private sector to engage with public officials to reach the common goal of gender equality. Unilever, SAP Next-Gen Labs, ADNOC and TECOM Group were amongst the participants.
The Institute of Sustainable Development (ISD) at Middlesex University Dubai fosters the advancement of sustainable development into the university, community and global practices. Through outreach, research and training, ISD is a thought leader in sustainability advocating for the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
For more information the Institute of Sustainable Development, please visit: https://www.mdx.ac.ae/isd or contact Dr Belisa Marochi on [email protected]
Dr Belisa Marochi Conducts Training Session on Gender Equality at Airbus Americas Headquarters
Dr Belisa Marochi, Head of the Institute of Sustainable Development at Middlesex University Dubai, conducted a training session on Gender Equality at Airbus Americas Headquarters just outside of Washington DC. Attended by more than 20 employees, the goal of the session was to inspire the team to develop initiatives and to promote gender equality at Airbus.
Hania Tabet, International Director at Airbus Foundation and Airbus Responsibility and Sustainability, and Linda Herbert, Vice-President of Leadership, Inclusion and Cultural Evolution at Airbus Americas organised the event as a way to promote the Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs) from the United Nations. Both Airbus and Middlesex University Dubai are signatories and active members of WEPs.
The Institute of Sustainable Development (ISD) at Middlesex University Dubai fosters the advancement of sustainable development into the University, community, and global practices. Through outreach, research and training, ISD is a thought leader in sustainability, advocating for the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
For more information please visit www.mdx.ac.ae/isd or contact Dr Belisa Marochi at [email protected].
Tourism team raises awareness on International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women
Tourism team raises awareness on International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women
To direct attention towards the UN International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on 25 November, Senior Lecturer in Tourism, Dr Heather Jeffrey and Sara Ali Abdelghani Abdelmonem presented research on the profiles of activist groups working towards the elimination of violence against women at the Institute for Sustainable Development at Middlesex University Dubai.
The research is to be included in a book on Gender-based violence in Tourism edited by Dr Paola Vizcaino, Dr. Heather Jeffrey and Dr Claudia Eger to be launched next year. The presentation was attended by faculty and dozens of students from various departments.
The Institute of Sustainable Development fosters the advancement of sustainable development into the university, community and global practices. Through outreach, research and training, ISD is a thought leader in sustainability advocating for the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
For more information on the Institute of Sustainable Development at Middlesex University Dubai, please visit www.mdx.ac.ae/isd
ISD Recognised by Dubai Chamber
The Institute of Sustainable Development at Middlesex University Dubai has been recognised by the Dubai Chamber for its efforts in their Sustainability Week 2019, World Without Waste and ongoing internal campaign – Let’s Reduce and Recycle. Our Simply Bottles campaign during Sustainability Week coincides with the greater efforts of the Chamber to encourage environmentally responsible practices from its partners.
Find out more about the Institute of Sustainable Development and its initiatives at www.mdx.ac.ae/isd.
Institute of Sustainable Development Launches 1st FQ Lounge in the Region
The Institute of Sustainable Development Dubai at Middlesex University Dubai, SAP Next-Gen and The Female Quotient partnered to launch the first FQ Lounge in the region at the University campus. The goal of the FQ lounge is to promote global change makers and support the development of the next generation of female leaders.
The launch included a panel discussion with distinguished speakers such as Fatima Alloghani, Head of Expo Academy & Emiratisation at Expo 2020 Dubai, Dr Tenia Kyriazi, Deputy Director of Academic Operations at Middlesex University Dubai, Wissam Kadi, Global Director at SAP Next-Gen, Mariam Farag, Head of Corporate Responsibility and Social Impact at MBC Group and Aishwarya Srivastava, LLB with International Relations Student at Middlesex University Dubai. Dr Belisa Marochi, Head of the Institute of Sustainable Development moderated the session.
"SAP is a strategic partner of the Female Quotient (FQ) globally and we are delighted to partner with Middlesex University Dubai to launch and introduce the FQ Lounge to the MENA region for the first time. In the lead up to Expo 2020, this marks a continuation of SAP Next Gen's efforts to strengthen partnerships and to step up dialogue around the 2030 Agenda while inspiring the next generation of leaders.”
The FQ Lounge concept is a space designed to connect and inspire young leaders. Aishwarya Srivastava, the FQ Lounge Campus President, will head the organisation of a series of events across campus engaging stakeholders and students across departments.
“The Institute of Sustainable Development at Middlesex University Dubai is happy to partner with SAP for the launch of the FQ Lounge in Dubai. The lounge elevates female talent by exploring solutions on how men and women can lead together to reach gender balance. “ stated Dr Belisa Marochi.
The Institute of Sustainable Development fosters the advancement of sustainable development into the university, community and global practices. Through outreach, research and training, ISD is a thought leader in sustainability advocating for the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
For more information on the Institute of Sustainable Development, please visit: https://www.mdx.ac.ae/isd
UN Global Compact Communication on Engagement
On March 1st the Institute published the UN Global Compact report to the UN website at https://www.unglobalcompact.org/. The report outlines the achievements of Middlesex University Dubai (MDX) from 2018 until October 2020 in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within our community.
This is the University’s second report for the UN Global Compact (UNGC) demonstrating our commitment to a sustainable and inclusive environment for our students, staff & the community.
The University focuses on fostering and promoting an environment of equality, inclusivity in education. Some of the highlights from the 54 page report included:
Middlesex University Dubai became the first University in the UAE to be part of a sustainable system for recycling 'waste' back into everyday products, such as clothing and accessories.
Middlesex University Dubai has staged a series of initiatives to support both faculty and students during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
Many community campaigns, mental health panel discussions and virtual fitness and music activities were held as proactive measures used to foster school spirit and boost wellbeing.
The switchover to online academic delivery was both seamless and a resounding success.
To raise awareness & encourage social change, Middlesex University Dubai hosted workshops, guest lectures and international conferences on technological advancement, innovation and sustainability
Middlesex University Dubai promotes equality and inclusion focusing on the provision of equal opportunities to students, irrespective of any disabilities or learning differences they might experience.
The imperative to discover, and navigate, a transition to a sustainable future means that research into sustainability has become increasingly important and the University faculty members prioritise research, contributing to a significant number of journal articles, conference papers & book chapters
A huge thanks to Andrew Mackenzie - ISD Chair, Mahine Rizvi Ahma - Coordinator for UN Global Compact, Rory McConnon - Research and Training Liaison and Ajoke Adetolabo Adeyomoye for putting this impressive report together.
Institute for Sustainable Development hosts training session during Deutsche Post DHL Global Learn & Grow Week
Middlesex University Dubai’s Institute for Sustainable Development (ISD) conducted a training session with Deutsche Post DHL as part of the company’s Global Learn & Grow Week. The session was held on 18th June 2021 and was a great success.
Learn & Grow Week brings together DPDHL employees from all over the world to discuss topics that are at the heart of the company’s strategy, including digitisation. The session was conducted by Middlesex faculty Andrew Mackenzie, Mahine Rizvi Ahmad and Stephen King.
Participants in the session were located across three continents and different cities, including Bonn, Germany; Istanbul, Turkey; Ghana; Mauritius; South Africa; and Dubai, UAE. This workshop introduced key concepts and ideas around environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG), the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and what DPDHL are doing and can do to support such initiatives.
Through interactive activities, participants reflected upon how they are contributing to both a better world and to DPDHL’s sustainability vision, connecting people and improving lives. The guests found inspiration on how they can further contribute personally and within their communities.
ISD’s mission is to promote a sustainable future through information exchange, capacity-building and innovation and to address global challenges through research, education and engagement, preparing tomorrow's leaders for life and work.
Find out more about their work at www.mdx.ac.ae/isd.
Middlesex University Dubai joins UN Global Compact’s Target Gender Equality accelerator programme
Middlesex University Dubai is proudly taking action to advance women's leadership and representation in business by joining Target Gender Equality (TGE), an accelerator programme from the UN Global Compact. TGE supports companies engaged with the UN Global Compact in setting and reaching ambitious corporate targets for advancing women’s participation in business at the highest levels.
Focused on uniting businesses across the world, the UN Global Compact is the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative. It works with over 12,000 companies to align their strategies and operations to advance social goals in areas such as the environment, society and governance.
Our TGE ambassador Mahine Rizvi Ahmad, Senior Lecturer in Law, and our TGE representatives Dr Fehmida Hussain, Head of Computer Engineering and Informatics, and Andrew Mackenzie, Chair of our Institute of Sustainable Development (ISD) will lead our participation in the Target Gender Equality initiative under the ISD umbrella.
Middlesex University Dubai is already a signatory to the UN’s Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs) and has a robust strategy in place for empowering its female staff and students to succeed in their respective fields, reporting its successes and progress in gender equality through the UN Global Compact.
The University also supports all student research on gender equality and inclusivity by providing resources, funding and grants in diverse fields such as sustainability, law, graphic design, media, tourism, psychology, engineering, IT and business.
The University will be setting further tangible goals in 2021 to reach even greater gender equality and progression targets, involving even more women in leadership and increasing female student representation and mentoring roles. Middlesex Dubai also plans to use the WEPs Gender Gap Analysis Tool to assess gender equality performance and set further goals.
Andrew Mackenzie said: “The Middlesex Institute of Sustainable Development (ISD) fosters the advancement of sustainability across the University, the community and in global practice. Through outreach, research and training, the ISD is a thought leader in advocating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations. Developing targets for goal 5 (Gender Equality), we understand that empowering women and promoting gender equality is crucial to accelerating sustainable development. Goal 5 is an integral part of our mission to achieve gender equality and empower women and girls.
“We have provided corporate training in the principles of gender equality and encourage companies to share ideas about how to design and implement initiatives to attract and retain women in male-dominated industries and university fields. We are proud to be joining Target Gender Equality and working with UN Global Compact to further this important mission.”
Learn more: www.unglobalcompact.org/take-action/target-gender-equality
Dubai Dialogue 2021 Conference
Happy 2022 to our students and the Institute of Sustainable Development Community!
Middlesex University Dubai in association with the Dubai Centre for Responsible Business and would like to start the year right by sharing key points from The Dubai Dialogue 2021 on the topic ‘Accelerating the Transition to a Circular Economy’ hosted by the Dubai Chamber.
The Dubai Dialogue 2021 is an annual forum bringing together a community of stakeholders such as business leaders, entrepreneurs, and experts to have an inclusive towards achieving a circular economy. Estimates of achieving a circular economy are estimated to be up to $4.5 trillion and that currently, the world economy is only at 10% of its potential.
The panel discussion comprised of the following:
- Dr. Kamel Mellahi (Moderator)
- Samira Al Rais – Senior Director, Policy & Strategy, Sustainable Development, The General Secretariat of The Executive Council, Government of Dubai
- Professor Dima Rachid Jamali – Dean, College of Business Administration, University of Sharjah
- Omar Channawi – CEO – Middle East, Sub-Sahara Africa and Global Entrepreneurial Markets, Proctor and Gamble
- Dr. Udo Huenger – Vice President Middle East, BASF
Some of the key areas covered by the discussion:
- Sustainability is complex and must be approached strategically. It requires the right people to help ‘pave the way’ for a circular economy borne out of collaborations with stakeholders including competitors.
- Circular systems also are found to be a ‘proven solution’ in managing waste and the increase thereof.
- At the time of the pandemic, circular economy rests in sustainable considerations for current and future generations. Our linear approaches simply are no longer viable options.
- Public and private sectors have their respective roles to play that are crucial to achieve actual circular economy effects.
- Stakeholders and academia are key enablers of circular economy.
The full report on the dialogue proceedings can be read here.