This post was recovered from an article first posted on  2012-12-05 09:44:45

Change. Solutions. Development. These were the keywords exchanged among almost 300 high school and college students who convened for the second run of the Sustainable Development in Action Youth Congress at UA&P last November 24. Engaging the youth in a campaign for sustainable development, Shell Corporation in the Philippines once again partnered with the Center for Research and Communication in organizing the conference, with the theme “Strengthening Human Capital through Sustainable Development.” The event started with a plenary session featuring experts from the energy sector and academe, and culminated with the presentation and awarding of the best sustainable development proposals crafted by the participants. Shell Country Chairman Edgar O. Chua gave the keynote address, outlining the future of energy use and urging students to find innovative ways to meet growing demand amid global urbanization. He emphasized that young people are important stakeholders in the campaign for sustainable development. They have much to gain — or lose — and so must be able to recognize the challenges and formulate solutions to these, he said. Meanwhile, UA&P School of Economics Dean Dr. Peter Lee U said that to achieve truly sustainable growth, a multidisciplinary approach in problem-solving is needed. He added that “in the imagination, the enthusiasm, and the energy of the youth lies the key to sustainable development.” Shell Technology Development Executive Andrew Kho also gave a talk, emphasizing the importance of making local technologies more efficient. Other speakers at the event were Colin Hubo of the Center for Social Responsibility and Pam Castro of Pilipinas Shell Foundation. The afternoon session proceeded with the group discussions and writing of proposals. A group that suggested a waste management orientation program for communities in Manila emerged as grand winners. Its members proposed a reward system to inspire citizens to develop a more socially responsible lifestyle. Read more about the event at Shell website >> Source: www.uap.asia