USM PENANG, 23 July 2026 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), through its International Office (IO@USM) and the Centre for Global Sustainability Studies (CGSS), recently welcomed the third cohort of international apprentices under the Tilting Futures: Take Action Lab – Environment & Sustainability programme.

This latest intake marks another milestone in USM’s collaboration with Tilting Futures, reinforcing the university’s commitment to global partnerships and sustainability education.

A total of 36 apprentices from diverse countries have arrived in Penang for a six‑week attachment with organisations both on and off campus, working on projects centred around sustainability.

Orientation and Welcome

The apprentices were officially welcomed during an orientation session at USM’s Toray Building, organised by IO@USM.

Present were CGSS representatives including Deputy Director, Associate Professor Dr. Ng Theam Foo; Dr. Haji Mohd Sayuti Hassan; Dr. Mohd Sukri Shafie; and student intern Hong Kheng Jhun.

In his opening remarks, Ng introduced USM and CGSS, while IO@USM Deputy Director, Sr. Dr. Muneera Esa extended a warm welcome and best wishes to the apprentices.

Apprenticeship at CGSS

Ten apprentices will be attached directly to CGSS at USM’s main campus, representing a wide range of cultural and academic backgrounds.

They have been placed in divisions aligned with their interests and programme objectives:

• Environmental Protection and Education Hub (EPEHub): Apprentices from Nigeria and Pakistan will engage in environmental conservation, sustainability awareness, and community outreach.
• Centre for Education & Training in Renewable Energy, Energy Efficiency & Green Technology (CETREE): Apprentices from India and South Sudan will contribute to renewable energy and green technology initiatives.
• Master in Sustainable Development Practice (MSDP): Apprentices from Pakistan and India will explore interdisciplinary approaches to sustainability.
• EcoHub: Apprentices from Africa, the Netherlands, Cameroon, and Uruguay will work on projects supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

CGSS Director, Associate Professor Dr. Mohd Wira Mohd Shafiei had earlier introduced the apprentices to their supervisors and encouraged them to actively engage in knowledge‑sharing and hands‑on experiences. Supervision will be led by Dr. Ng (EPEHub), Dr. Sayuti (EcoHub), Dr. Suzyrman Sibly (MSDP), and Dr. Sukri (CETREE).

Building Global Leaders

The Tilting Futures apprenticeship programme offers participants a unique opportunity to gain practical skills, broaden global perspectives, and collaborate with sustainability practitioners on real‑world challenges.

Through experiential learning and cross‑cultural collaboration, apprentices are nurtured to become future leaders driving positive change in their communities and beyond.

Strengthening USM’s Global Role

This collaboration underscores USM’s dedication to sustainability, diversity, and international engagement. By welcoming apprentices from across the globe, USM continues to strengthen its role as a leading institution advancing the SDGs through education, research, and community partnerships.

USM hopes that the apprentices’ time in Penang will not only enrich their academic and professional growth but also inspire lasting collaborations and meaningful contributions towards a more sustainable future.

Text: Hong Kheng Jhun, Centre for Global Sustainability Studies (CGSS), USM/Editing: Tan Ewe Hoe/Photo: Syafiq Saifullah Azmi, CGSS, USM