Latest news with #SDG11
Time of India
3 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Infra works delay: Bawankule slams NMC over non-utilisation of Rs310cr
Nagpur: With civic elections approaching, guardian minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule on Saturday criticised the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) for inaction in utilising Rs310 crore sanctioned for urban development by the state govt in 2023–24 financial year. The govt has already specified the type of development works to be prioritised under these special infrastructure funds. These include water supply and sewerage works, construction, expansion or cleaning of drains to meet major urban demands, and installation of streetlights, high-mast lighting, footpaths, and stormwater drainage lines. During a high-level review meeting at NMC headquarters, Bawankule expressed strong displeasure over the civic body's failure to submit a zone-wise development plan, despite the funds being earmarked by then deputy chief minister and incumbent CM Devendra Fadnavis. He warned officials to urgently prepare and submit detailed proposals, ensuring the projects align with local needs and benefit citizens. The meeting was attended by city MLAs Krishna Khopde, Pravin Datke, Vikas Thakre, NMC commissioner Abhijeet Chaudhari, district collector Vipin Itankar, and senior civic officials. Bawankule instructed that MLAs be actively consulted in identifying area-specific works and called for the appointment of sub-engineers in each zone to oversee implementation of projects under the District Planning Committee (DPC) fund. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like アマゾンで爆売れ「スゥーっと浸透した」爪に潜む菌まで殺菌する特殊ジェル クリアストロングショットアルファ Undo by Taboola by Taboola He emphasised that execution must begin without further delay. City MLAs also demanded that the civic administration eases mandatory online tender condition for works above Rs10 lakh and insisted that elected representatives be taken into confidence for all development works in their constituencies. The state has encouraged civic bodies to take up projects like building community halls, temples, gyms, libraries, and markets, along with public toilets and urinals. Other permissible works include the development of open spaces, parks, upgradation of existing gardens, conservation of heritage structures, construction or renovation of govt buildings, improving accessibility for persons with disabilities, and development of cremation grounds and green belts such as Amrutvan. Any other infrastructure project directly related to urban services can also be considered. Notably, this is not the first time NMC drew flak for failing to utilise available state funds. Under the 2022–23 district annual plan, the Maharashtra govt made a separate provision for urban infrastructure projects through a govt resolution dated March 28, 2022. The scheme, aligned with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (particularly SDG 11), allowed 100% state funding for urban local bodies for civic infrastructure upgrades. Official sources confirmed that while urban local bodies (ULBs) across Maharashtra submitted proposals under this scheme, NMC failed to do so — missing a crucial opportunity to address persistent flooding and infrastructure gaps in the city. With elections to the NMC due later this year, the Mahayuti appears eager to show results. But NMC's repeated lapses in planning and proposal submission may become a major political liability unless urgent corrective action is taken.
The Star
06-07-2025
- General
- The Star
‘Sustainability in our DNA'
SUSTAINABILITY is part of the identity and way of life at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), says Prof Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Mohamed. The USM vice-chancellor affirmed that the varsity is deeply rooted in its commitment to sustainable development and practices that have a tangible impact on society, the nation and the world. Prof Abdul Rahman was responding to USM's performance as Malaysia's highest-ranked institution in the recently released Times Higher Education (THE) University Impact Rankings 2025. The varsity sits in joint 14th position with National Taiwan University in the overall ranking, up from 18th place last year. 'This achievement is the result of the collective efforts of the entire USM community. 'Sustainability has become an integrated culture across all aspects of administration, academics and campus life. 'It is not merely an effort to secure a strong position, but part of our identity and work ethic,' he said in a statement. The varsity also topped the global rankings in three of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It came first for SDG 1 (no poverty), SDG 16 (peace, justice and strong institutions), and joint first with Universiti Malaya (UM) for SDG 17 (partnerships for the goals). In total, 65% of USM's performance falls within the world's top 100, including SDG 2 (zero hunger), SDG 3 (good health and well-being), SDG 5 (gender equality), SDG 6 (clean water and sanitation), SDG 7 (affordable and clean energy), SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities), SDG 14 (life below water), and SDG 15 (life on land). Meanwhile, Universiti Malaya (UM) - the country's second highest-ranked university - secured joint 25th position with King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Saudi Arabia. Besides sharing first place with USM for SDG 17, UM was ranked fourth globally in SDG 1 for its strong student support systems - including financial aid, affordable housing and transportation - and outreach to marginalised communities. It also leads the Asia region in sixth place for SDG 14, and ranks joint seventh globally for SDG 11 due to its green campus efforts and sustainability policies, and 12th for SDG 15 for its leadership in biodiversity conservation and environmental education. Commenting on UM's number one global ranking in SDG 17 with a 99.8% score, its vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Seri Dr Noor Azuan Abu Osman called it a testament to the university's shared vision and collective effort. 'This recognition reaffirms our unwavering commitment to the cause of sustainable and future-driven development. 'It reflects how strategic sustainable plans have been transformed into practical realities - benefiting not only our immediate community, but future generations and the world as a whole,' he said in a statement. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) and Sunway University are the other two Malaysian universities that made their way into the top 100 of the rankings. UKM climbed to joint 53rd while Sunway University ranks 81st, up from the 201–300 band. In total, Malaysia has 34 universities in the rankings. Other Malaysian universities that stood out in individual categories include Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA), which ranks 18th for SDG 7; Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM), 41st place for SDG 10 (reduced inequalities); and UKM, 26th position for SDG 12 (responsible consumption and production). The seventh edition of the University Impact Rankings was released on June 18 by THE, publisher of the globally recognised THE World University Rankings. The rankings are the only global performance tables that assess universities against the UN SDGs across four broad areas - research, stewardship, outreach and teaching. Universities are ranked across 18 tables: one overall ranking and 17 tables representing each individual SDG. A record 2,526 universities were ranked globally from 130 countries, with Asian universities claiming more than half of the rankings for the first time. THE chief global affairs officer Phil Baty said: 'Universities worldwide are stepping up to help the world take on its most pressing grand challenges, from the climate crisis to delivering economic growth to supporting peace and justice across the world. 'Asia is leading the way on the sustainability agenda. 'Asia's clear dominance of the rankings in terms of overall representation, and so many outstanding individual university performances, including several world number-one positions for individual SDGs, shows that when it comes to universities' social and economic impact, the world will increasingly look to Asia.' For more information, visit
Observer
02-07-2025
- Business
- Observer
Oman's urban vision and insights from Singapore
As cities worldwide navigate climate change, rapid urbanisation and digital transformation, Oman is emerging as a quiet innovator — one that blends tradition with ambition and culture with forward-thinking strategy. Under the guidance of Oman Vision 2040, the country is shaping an urban future defined not just by infrastructure and technology, but by inclusion, sustainability and human dignity. From Sultan Haitham City to Yiti Sustainable City, Oman is investing in smart, livable and ecologically conscious urban environments. These projects are more than real estate — they are expressions of a national vision that places people, place and progress in balance. Smart Cities with Omani Character Oman Vision 2040 provides a bold framework for sustainable development, aligned with global priorities like the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 11 and SDG 9). But Oman's approach to smart cities is refreshingly its own. Rather than chase flashy technological fixes, the country is emphasising local context — designing communities that respect the landscape, enhance quality of life and elevate Omani culture. Urban planners are increasingly asking: How can smart cities reflect who we are? This sense of authenticity is what sets Oman apart. Singapore A Source of Inspiration While every city's path is unique, learning from others is key. Singapore, a global leader in integrated urban development, offers a set of complementary insights that can inspire Oman's evolving approach. Oman's approach stands out for its grounded optimism, cultural depth, and commitment to people-centered progress. Here are five areas where Oman can draw strength and direction: 1. Holistic Policy Planning Singapore demonstrates the power of long-term, cross-sector planning. Oman is on a similar path and further coordination between ministries, municipalities and private sector actors can unlock even greater results. 2. People-Centred Innovation In Singapore, smart solutions are designed with and for citizens — from user-friendly e-services to participatory urban platforms. Oman's youth councils, local forums and ambassador programmes offer a strong foundation to expand citizen engagement in future city-making. 3. Sustainability in Action Singapore's zero-waste efforts and water management systems are backed by long-term investment and national buy-in. Oman is taking promising steps through Yiti and Sultan Haitham City — now is the time to embed climate resilience and resource efficiency across the urban system. 4. Digital Trust and Data Access Oman's investments in AI, IoT and digital infrastructure are commendable. Building on this, introducing open urban data platforms could enhance transparency, foster innovation and strengthen public trust — beginning with new city developments. 5. Inclusive Growth and Access Ensuring that smart city benefits reach all segments of society is a hallmark of Singapore's approach. Oman has an opportunity to deepen its commitment to digital inclusion — especially for SMEs, rural communities and underrepresented groups. Unlocking the Next Phase Policy Enablers To continue advancing, Oman could consider a few practical enablers: • Urban Living Labs: Establish community-driven innovation spaces in Muscat, Al Duqm and Sultan Haitham City, where public and private actors collaborate on real-world urban solutions. • Smart Oman Charter: A values-based national policy framework to guide ethics, data governance and sustainable standards in urban development. • Smart Infrastructure Fund: A blended finance mechanism to scale urban infrastructure, supported by public-private partnerships and global green capital. These initiatives would not only strengthen domestic capacity — they would also signal Oman's role as a regional convenor and thought leader in smart and sustainable urbanism. A Vision Worth Building Oman is not simply adapting to change — it is helping define what a smart city means for the Arab world. The Sultanate of Oman's approach stands out for its grounded optimism, cultural depth and commitment to people-centred progress. Where Singapore offers lessons in systems thinking and precision execution, Oman brings something equally powerful: a model of smart urbanism rooted in identity, resilience and vision. As the country moves forward, this blend of local values and global openness will be its greatest strength. The future Oman is building is not just smart — it is wise.
The Sun
02-07-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Malaysia leads UN-Habitat mission at Mayors Forum in Austria
PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia has embarked on its first international mission as president of the UN-Habitat Assembly (UNHA) by joining the 14th Mayors Forum of the World Cities Summit (WCS) 2025 in Vienna, Austria. The event, running from July 2 to July 4, highlights the country's commitment to sustainable urban development on the global stage. Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming is leading the delegation in his role as UNHA president. The team includes Kuala Lumpur Mayor Datuk Seri Dr Maimunah Mohd Sharif and KPKT technical advisor on Multilateral Affairs Dr Neil Khor Jin Keong. In a statement, Nga emphasised the significance of Malaysia's participation, noting its potential to enhance the nation's leadership in urban sustainability. 'As president of the UNHA, I am honoured to take part in this forum among mayors who are leading urban innovation on the ground. This is a vital opportunity to align global commitments with local action.' The minister added that insights and partnerships from the forum would benefit Malaysia's urban planning and housing strategies. During the summit, Nga will engage in bilateral discussions with key figures, including UNIDO director-general Gerd Müller, Vienna Mayor and Governor Michael Ludwig, and Metropolis secretary-general Jordi Vaquer. Topics will cover plan-led urban development, climate resilience, social inclusion, and progress toward SDG11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). Nga is also set to deliver a special address at Mayors Forum Session 1, further reinforcing Malaysia's role in shaping global urban policies.
Scoop
19-06-2025
- Science
- Scoop
UC Rises To 61st In The World For Global Impact
The latest results of the THE Impact Rankings, released today, confirm Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury (UC)'s growing reputation as a globally impactful institution committed to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Out of more than 2,500 participating universities worldwide, UC has climbed 28 places from its previous position of 89 – affirming its leadership in research, teaching, and community engagement that drives sustainable development. Demonstrating the University's strength in research and teaching that addresses real-world challenges, UC achieved standout global positions: 14th for Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11) and 22nd for Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12). UC is the top-ranked university in New Zealand for three SDGs: SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production SDG 14: Life Below Water 'These results reflect the University's deep commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals,' says Professor Jan Evans-Freeman, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Sustainability. The University has various research groups and centres tackling global issues, including the Waterways Centre for Freshwater Management, QuakeCoRE and the Institute of Law, Emergencies and Disasters. 'Research plays a pivotal role in addressing the world's most urgent challenges,' says Professor Lucy Johnston, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation. 'Our strong performance in the THE Impact Rankings reflects the depth and relevance of our research and reinforces our responsibility to generate knowledge that informs and transforms communities, both locally and globally.' Sustainability is embedded across UC's academic programmes. Students engage with the SDGs through a range of qualifications, including the Bachelor of Social and Environmental Sustainability and the Master's in Disaster Risk and Resilience, alongside a broad array of majors, minors, and courses that address complex global challenges. UC is proud to be hosting the United Nations8th Adaptation Futures Conferencelater this year, helping position Oceania and Aotearoa New Zealand at the forefront of climate adaptation and allowing our people to demonstrate thought leadership while benefiting from high-level knowledge sharing, networking and collaboration opportunities created by this event.
