UMPSA students excel at 3rd International Summer School on Sustainability

Karlsruhe, Germany, 9 September 2024 – Four exemplary students from Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) were selected to participate in the 3rd International Summer School on Sustainability, hosted by Karlsruhe University of Applied Sciences (HKA) from 9 to 13 September 2024. 

After a rigorous selection process involving 15 highly competitive candidates, Ahmad Fauzan Ahmad Faizul and Kong Zhen Mike, both from the Faculty of Industrial Management, Myra Anne Miranda from the Faculty of Chemical and Process Engineering Technology, and Logathepan a/l Muniyappan from the Faculty of Computing, secured their places to represent UMPSA in this globally recognised programme.

Held from 9th to 13th September 2024, the summer school brought together 36 students from 13 different countries, including Burkina Faso, Cameroon, France, Germany, Greece, Malaysia, Mexico, Romania, South Korea, Switzerland, Turkey, Uganda, and Vietnam. 

Led by Professor Dr. Michael Kauffeld and Dr. Mihaela Dudita Kauffeld, the programme aimed to enhance participants' understanding of sustainability through an integrated approach, combining expert-led lectures, workshops, and site visits to key industry players.

A Week of Learning and International Collaboration
The week-long event began with insightful discussions on global sustainability, exploring the links between sustainability and digitalisation. Robert Szilinski from esentri AG delivered a keynote lecture, highlighting the transformative role of digital technologies in promoting sustainable solutions.

UMPSA's students participated in workshops conducted by international experts, including professors from the Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences and other partner institutions. 

One of the programme’s standout moments was the visit to the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), where participants explored the latest advancements in refrigeration systems and heat pump technologies, essential for energy-efficient solutions.

At HKA’s cutting-edge refrigeration laboratory, the students worked on technical assignments, gaining hands-on experience in sustainable energy solutions. 

These activities were designed to equip participants with practical knowledge they can apply in future sustainability projects.

Industry Exposure: A Glimpse into the Future
A key objective of the summer school was to provide participants with exposure to industry practices. 
As part of this, the UMPSA students visited leading companies in the sustainability sector. 

A highlight of the week was the visit to Vulcan’s geothermal power plant in Insheim, where students gained insights into lithium extraction from geothermal water-critical for the production of batteries used in electric vehicles.
The visit to Daimler Trucks in Wörth was equally impactful, as students learned about the company’s strategies for leading the transition towards electric mobility. 

Ahmad Fauzan Ahmad Faizul reflected, “It was enlightening to witness how industries are adopting sustainable practices. 

“The experience has broadened my understanding of the practical challenges and opportunities within the sustainability sector,” he said. 

Cultural Engagement and Broader Perspectives
In addition to academic and industry engagements, the summer school offered participants opportunities to immerse themselves in the cultural fabric of Karlsruhe. 

A key highlight was the Schlosslichtspiele, a visually stunning light projection show at Karlsruhe Palace, which artfully blended themes of sustainability with artistic expression.

A visit to the Klima Arena in Sinsheim provided further opportunities for practical learning, where participants engaged in the Climate Fresk workshop, led by Professor Dr. Olivier Schecker. 

The interactive workshop facilitated a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding global climate change, encouraging participants to think critically about future solutions.

Reflection and Conclusion
As the summer school drew to a close, the students attended a formal farewell dinner at Badisch Brauhaus, where they reflected on the knowledge and experiences gained throughout the week. 

Myra Anne Miranda shared, “This experience has been truly enriching, blending academic learning with cross-cultural exchange, giving me fresh perspectives.

“I’m eager to apply in the future,” she said. 

Logathepan a/l Muniyappan remarked, “The programme has expanded my understanding of sustainability, and I’m grateful to UMPSA and HKA for such a valuable opportunity. 

“The connections made here will undoubtedly benefit my academic and professional path,” he said. 

Kong Zhen Mike highlighted the balance between theory and industry exposure: “From engaging lectures to hands-on workshops, I’ve gained a deeper insight into how innovative technologies drive sustainability. 

“Visits to companies like Vulcan and Daimler have shown me how industries are addressing global challenges,” he said. 

Ahmad Fauzan Ahmad Faizul reflected, “Beyond academics, this has been a cultural eye-opener. 

“Engaging with peers from around the world has broadened my perspective on sustainability and the importance of collaboration in solving shared challenges,” he said. 

The participation of UMPSA’s students in this international programme underscores the university’s commitment to fostering global engagement and equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute to sustainable solutions on a global scale.

By: Logathepan A/L Muniyappan, Ahmad Fauzan Ahmad Faizul, Kong Zhen Mike and Myra Anne Miranda