SDG 1 No Poverty

University of Cyberjaya (UoC) defines sustainability as a term that encompasses all aspects of ethical business practices by addressing relevant issues responsibly and profitably.

The University recognises the importance of sustainability and its increasing impact to our operations. We are committed to understanding and implementing sustainable practices and to exploring the benefits to the University whilst attempting to achieve the right balance between the needs of the wider community and our focus on delivering quality education to our students.

1.4 Community anti-poverty programmes

1.4.1 Local start-up assistance

The Scented Eco-Friendly Candle Making Workshop organized by the University of Cyberjaya provided participants with a hands-on, educational experience in creating sustainable, zero-waste candles. This event served as a platform for local community members to gain practical skills and knowledge that could be applied to starting small-scale businesses. By offering training workshops and access to university facilities, the workshop empowered participants to explore entrepreneurship in the eco-friendly sector, while also promoting sustainable production practices.

Our university’s initiative goes beyond skill-building by fostering local start-up assistance through mentorship and resource sharing, ensuring that individuals from the community are supported in launching their own businesses. Participants not only learned the technical aspects of candle-making but also understood how to scale their ventures sustainably, contributing to both financial and environmental well-being in their local communities.

1.4.2 Local start-up financial assistance

The booths for preloved items, clothing, and beeswax wraps held during the SDG Week 2024 were designed to support local entrepreneurs in showcasing their products and gaining visibility in the market. This event created opportunities for participants to generate financial income by allowing them to sell sustainable and eco-friendly products. Through the booth setup, participants had the chance to attract customers and potential investors, thus providing a stepping stone for financial independence and growth for their small businesses.

By offering a platform for local entrepreneurs, our university contributed to financial assistance for start-ups, enabling participants to fund their businesses and further develop their entrepreneurial skills. The event’s success demonstrated the importance of community-driven initiatives, where local businesses receive the visibility and support they need to thrive in a competitive market, while also promoting sustainable practices.

1.4.3 Programmes for services access

The Empowering Young Minds Programme organized by the University of Cyberjaya in collaboration with SMK Bandar Baru Bangi is a prime example of our university’s efforts to improve access to essential services for all students. This programme, focused on mental health support by providing a series of workshops and counselling sessions. These initiatives addressed common challenges such as stress, anxiety, and academic pressures, ensuring that students from all backgrounds had access to the tools and resources necessary to manage their mental well-being.

By offering training and support in the form of mental health awareness workshops, the University of Cyberjaya demonstrated its commitment to improving access to basic services, specifically in mental health care. The programme helped to destigmatize seeking help and empowered students with the knowledge and skills to cope with personal and academic challenges. This initiative is a testament to the university's role in organizing programmes that provide vital support services to students, particularly in enhancing their overall well-being and ensuring that everyone could thrive academically and personally.