WIPO Global Awards 2025: Applications Now Open

  • Applications are now open for the WIPO Global Awards 2025 competition, inviting submissions from small businesses, startups, and university spin-offs.
  • The Awards are open to applicants worldwide and across all business activities. They aim to recognize the effective use of intellectual property for business growth and social impact.
  • This year, special mentions will be given to outstanding women and youth entrepreneurs selected from the winning companies.
  • Winners will receive mentoring to enhance their intellectual property strategies, fundraising support, partnership opportunities, and publicity.

Geneva, Switzerland, January 19, 2025 — The WIPO Global Awards 2025 competition has opened applications for startups, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and university spinouts that utilize intellectual property (IP) to stimulate economic growth and enhance societal well-being.

Launched in 2022, the Global Awards recognize enterprises that utilize intellectual property (IP) for business success and as an economic and social impact driver. Winners receive exclusive mentoring to help them enhance their use of IP as a strategic asset. It includes support in commercialization, fundraising, partnership building, publicity, and more.

The WIPO Global Awards 2025 now accepts applications from startups, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), university spinouts, and smaller businesses across various sectors, including health, environment, creativity, agrifood, and information and communication technology (ICT). The application period will close on March 31, 2025.

An independent jury of experts will select ten winning enterprises, and these winners will be announced during an awards ceremony at the WIPO Assemblies in July 2025, held at WIPO’s headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. This year, special recognition will be awarded to those winners who women and youth entrepreneurs lead.

The WIPO Global Awards showcase how intellectual property empowers companies to bring great products to the market while tackling local and global challenges and improving lives. In 2025, we’re proud to deepen our commitment to inclusivity and innovation by recognizing outstanding women and youth entrepreneurs among the winners as part of the competition. These new special mentions reflect WIPO’s vision for a future where everyone benefits from IP-driven solutions everywhere. Please apply and join the global movement of WIPO Global Award change-makers.

— WIPO Director General Daren Tang

The Awards aim to promote the commercialization of intellectual property (IP) assets by recognizing outstanding inventors, creators, and entrepreneurs who effectively leverage IP to achieve their business objectives, generate revenue, create employment opportunities, address local and global challenges, and foster community and national development.

Companies worldwide are invited to submit their applications by March 31, 2025. The application form is available in several languages, including English, French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, and Russian.

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations dedicated to advancing global innovators and creators. Its primary objective is to ensure that intellectual property (IP) is effectively transported to market, thereby enhancing the quality of life globally.

WIPO accomplishes this objective by offering comprehensive services that empower creators, innovators, and entrepreneurs to safeguard and promote their intellectual property across international boundaries. Furthermore, WIPO is a forum for discussing emerging and relevant IP issues. The organization’s extensive IP data and information serve to inform decision-makers worldwide. In addition, its project initiatives and technical assistance efforts are designed to ensure that intellectual property advantages are accessible to all individuals, irrespective of their geographic location.

Source: WIPO

— Surender Hastir is an alumnus of WIPO Academy, Geneva, Switzerland.

Countdown to 2025: Live Performances in Times Square

New Year’s Eve organizers in Times Square, New York City, have revealed the official event lineup.

Rita Ora, Carrie Underwood, the Jonas Brothers, Megan Moroney, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, TLC, Greeicy, De La Ghetto, and Kapo will perform live in Times Square for the 2025 New Year’s Eve celebration.

NEW YORK, December 30, 2024 – The Times Square Alliance, One Times Square, and Countdown Entertainment, the co-organizers of Times Square New Year’s Eve, have announced the official event lineup for this year’s celebration. The lineup will feature live performances by Mark Ambor, Mickey Guyton, Rita Ora, Carrie Underwood, Jonas Brothers, Megan Moroney, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, TLC, Greeicy, De La Ghetto, and Kapo. In addition to these performances, there will be various special activities and appearances throughout the evening.

The ceremony will begin at 6:00 p.m. ET with the lighting and raising of the New Year’s Eve Ball atop One Times Square. Following this, the Sino-American Friendship Association (SAFA) will present a spectacular Chinese cultural performance titled “A Spring Festival Celebration.” In 2024, the Chinese Spring Festival, which marks the beginning of the new year on the Chinese calendar, was inscribed on UNESCO’s list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This performance will showcase Chinese flag dancing, opera, and a blend of modern and traditional music and dance to celebrate the Year of the Snake.

Jonathan Bennett, a well-known actor and TV personality, returns as the host for the evening. He is the co-creator of the Hallmark+ reality series “Finding Mr. Christmas” and the star and Executive Producer of the Hallmark holiday film “The Holiday Sitter.” Bennett is famous for his role in “Mean Girls” and as the host of Food Network shows like “Cake Wars.”

He will be joined by Jeremy Hassell, an experienced live event and celebrity interview host, who has been co-hosting the Times Square New Year’s Eve celebration since 2016.

Following are the Countdown Stages for the Times Square 2025 Live Performance:

  • Mark Ambor performs his hit songs “Belong Together,” “Good to Be,” and “Our Way.”
  • Mickey Guyton performs her hit songs, “My Side of the Country,” “House on Fire,” “All American,” and the unique Times Square New Year’s Eve tradition of singing John Lennon’s “Imagine” moments before midnight.
  • Rita Ora performs on ABC’s “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest.”
  • Jonas Brothers perform on ABC’s “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest.”
  • Megan Moroney performs on ABC’s “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest.”
  • Sophie Ellis-Bextor performs on ABC’s “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest.”
  • TLC performs on ABC’s “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest.”
  • Carrie Underwood performs on ABC’s “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest.”
  • Greeicy performs on Univision’s ¡Feliz 2025!
  • De La Ghetto performs on Univision’s ¡Feliz 2025!
  • Kapo performs on Univision’s ¡Feliz 2025!
  • The Sino-American Friendship Association (SAFA) will present a cultural performance titled “A Spring Festival Celebration.”
  • AGNEW, a New York dance group, will perform for the revelers
  • Triad Brass, New York City’s 5-piece brass band featuring Grammy Award winner Jonathan Arons.

In addition to the performances, the evening will feature many more memorable moments, including:

The Associated Press, the world’s oldest and largest news-gathering organization, will present its year-in-review newsreel featuring some of the most memorable events of 2024.

Thanks to Live X, people worldwide will have the chance to experience the excitement of the Times Square New Year’s Eve celebration through a six-hour live webcast free of commercials. The webcast will showcase all the festivities, including musical performances by Mark Ambor and Mickey Guyton.

The 16th annual webcast will cover the action and festivities in Times Square, beginning with the Ball Raising at 6 p.m. EST. It will also feature live musical performances, hourly countdowns, behind-the-scenes stories, and star-studded interviews as anticipation builds toward the midnight countdown and the famous Ball Drop.

The highly anticipated festivities will feature an immersive virtual experience from One Times Square, the home of the iconic New Year’s Eve Ball Drop Celebration. Through the VNYE website, people worldwide can livestream the celebrations in Times Square.

For more than 120 years, Times Square has stood as a vibrant beacon of global excitement on New Year’s Eve. This remarkable tradition originated in 1904 when the owners of One Times Square hosted festive rooftop celebrations to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new one with joy and hope. The inaugural Ball Drop celebration occurred in 1907, marking the beginning of an iconic ritual. Since then, the dazzling descent of the illuminated ball has become a cherished symbol of renewal and a universal expression of celebration as millions gather to watch the clock strike midnight, ushering in a fresh start amid cheers and fireworks.

Source: Times Square

Season’s Greetings: Joy and Prosperity Ahead

Season’s Greetings and Best Wishes for the Coming Year!

Season’s Greetings to you and your esteemed associates. As we approach the new year, I extend my sincerest wishes for joy, prosperity, and success in all your pursuits. May the forthcoming year be abundant with remarkable opportunities and treasured moments.

UNESCO Appoints Pharrell Williams as Goodwill Ambassador for Arts Education

UNESCO has appointed Pharrell Williams as its Goodwill Ambassador for Arts Education and Entrepreneurship.

Paris, December 19, 2024 — On Tuesday, Audrey Azoulay, the Director-General of UNESCO, appointed Pharrell Williams as a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Arts Education and Entrepreneurship during a ceremony at the Organization’s headquarters in Paris.

Renowned as an Academy Award-nominated musician and innovative filmmaker, this talented individual is a dedicated philanthropist and currently serves as the Men’s Creative Director for the prestigious fashion house Louis Vuitton. With an impressive record of 13 Grammy Awards, he is celebrated for his exceptional contributions to the music industry. Since his debut in 2006, his work has garnered billions of streams globally, captivating audiences with infectious hits like “Happy” and “Get Lucky.” His remarkable collaborations with some of the world’s most renowned artists further demonstrate his versatility and artistry, allowing his music to connect with listeners across every continent.

In June 2024, Pharrell Williams selected the UNESCO Headquarters in Paris as the venue for his fourth fashion show as Men’s Creative Director of Louis Vuitton, entitled “The World is Yours.” The American artist emphasized themes of universalism and diversity, with the event featuring the display of the 194 flags representing UNESCO’s Member States.

“Pharrell Williams is a talented artist and a dedicated humanist who strives to use culture to promote peace and unite people. He believes in the transformative power of creativity and education to create a better future. His values align with UNESCO’s mission. I am pleased to announce that he is joining UNESCO’s family of Goodwill Ambassadors today to support our efforts,” remarked UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay.

“I am deeply honored to be selected by UNESCO as a Goodwill Ambassador. It is challenging to convey the extent of my gratitude for this opportunity. I extend my sincere thanks to Director-General Audrey Azoulay. I look forward to advancing our mission to provide equitable opportunities for children and adults through education, in collaboration with YELLOW and Black Ambition,” Pharrell Williams responded.

To celebrate his nomination, Pharrell Williams addressed 800 secondary school students and fashion, music, and film students at UNESCO Headquarters during a screening of his biopic, “Piece by Piece.”

As part of Audrey Azoulay’s roadmap, Pharrell Williams will represent UNESCO at major international cultural events and support the Organization’s educational and cultural programs worldwide.

As a Goodwill Ambassador, he will serve as a mentor and role model for young creators, particularly in Africa, where UNESCO actively promotes the development of cultural industries.

Source: UNESCO

Gukesh Becomes Youngest Chess World Champion

Gukesh, demonstrating remarkable determination, has achieved his lifelong aspiration by becoming the youngest world chess champion.

SINGAPORE, December 12, 2024 — Indian prodigy Grandmaster Gukesh Dommaraju has attained the status of the 18th undisputed world champion following the unexpected collapse of Chinese Grandmaster Ding Liren (32) in game 14 of the 2024 FIDE World Championship. Gukesh emerged victorious with a score of 7.5 to 6.5, despite Ding having what appeared to be a risk-free opportunity to secure a win. Instead, Ding opted to liquidate into a pawn-down endgame. This position should have resulted in a draw; however, due to mounting pressure, Ding made a critical blunder.

Building on the remarkable legacy of the legendary Viswanathan Anand, Gukesh has become only the second Indian to win the prestigious title. He follows in the footsteps of the iconic player, who held the crown five times throughout his career.

Anand has played a vital role in shaping Gukesh’s chess skills at his renowned chess academy in Chennai. He has offered guidance, support, and valuable insights that have greatly influenced Gukesh’s development as a young player.

University of Toronto Tops QS World Sustainability Rankings 2025

QS Quacquarelli Symonds, experts in global higher education, released the third edition of the QS World Sustainability Rankings 2025, featuring over 1,740 universities from 107 locations.

The University of Toronto has been confirmed as the world’s top institution, followed by ETH Zurich in second place.

Professor Meric Gertler, President of the University of Toronto, stated, “We are thrilled that our university is once again ranked first in the QS Sustainability Rankings, reinforcing our commitment to leading the way toward a sustainable future.”

QS (Sustainability) Top 10

  1. University of Toronto, Canada
  2. ETH Zurich, Switzerland
  3. Lund University, Sweden
  4. University of California, Berkeley, USA
  5. UCL, UK
  6. University of British Columbia, Canada
  7. Imperial College London, UK
  8. The University of Edinburgh, UK
  9. The University of Manchester, UK
  10. The University of Melbourne, Australia

Seven African universities have been ranked within the top 500, with the University of Cape Town achieving the highest position in the region at 45th place. Cairo University is ranked 370th.

Australia is represented by 14 universities in the top 100, with the University of Melbourne holding steady at ninth place. The Queensland University of Technology (QUT) is the sole Australian institution to have ascended in the rankings.

Six universities from four different countries are included in the top 100 within Asia. The University of Tokyo is the highest-ranked university at 44th. Mainland China has 114 ranked universities, with Fudan University being the foremost at 133rd. India follows with 78 ranked universities, led by the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, positioned at 171st.

The United States leads in institutional representation, with 239 ranked universities. The University of California, Berkeley, shares third place.

The United Kingdom has 26 universities in the top 100 globally and more top 10 universities than any other nation.

ETH Zurich ranks as the top European university, advancing to second overall.

The University of Toronto maintains its status as the world’s foremost university. Canada is distinguished by having two institutions within the top five, a higher count than any other nation or territory.

Despite holding the second-largest number of entries, no university from Mainland China appears in the top 100.

Swedish universities have made noteworthy advancements, with one institution rising from eighth to a joint third position, attributable to enhancements in Environmental Education.

New Zealand ranks all eight universities in the top 500, achieving the highest average score. The University of Auckland leads this group, ranking 17th globally.

Source: QS

UNESCO Report on Addressing Gender Violence in Universities

UNESCO is preparing to publish an extensive report that will critically examine the prevalence of gender-based violence within higher education institutions. This analysis aims to provide valuable insights and contribute to the ongoing efforts to address this critical issue.

The International Day for Eliminating Violence Against Women was observed globally on November 25, 2024.

Each year on November 25, the global community meets to observe the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (VAW). This day is dedicated to raising awareness regarding this critical issue and serves as a reminder of the persistent challenges women and girls face worldwide. Additionally, it provides a platform for advocating for systemic change and mobilizing action to address and eliminate violence against women.

According to the United Nations, violence impacts women from all cultures, economic backgrounds, and age groups. It takes various forms, including domestic violence, sexual harassment, and human trafficking. Each of these types of violence causes harm to individuals, families, and entire communities. According to the World Health Organization, one in three women worldwide experience physical or sexual violence at some point in their lives, often at the hands of an intimate partner.

The United Nations acknowledges that violence against women (VAW) is a violation of fundamental human rights and hinders social and economic development worldwide. To eliminate this issue, collective action is crucial, as emphasized by the observance of November 25. This day serves as a call for solidarity and coordinated efforts to end violence against women and girls, promoting a global movement towards a more just and equitable world for everyone.

The United Nations emphasizes that raising awareness is the first step in creating a world where everyone can live free from fear and harm. It is essential for individuals, communities, and institutions to comprehend the extent and impact of violence against women (VAW) and to actively challenge the social and cultural norms that support it.

According to UNESCO, higher education institutions (HEIs) are not exempt from incidents of violence against women (VAW). Such violence occurs within these environments, affecting students, staff, and faculty. It is crucial to comprehend the unique dynamics of VAW in HEIs to foster safer and more inclusive campuses for everyone.

Universities and academic institutions have a unique opportunity to raise awareness about violence against women (VAW), challenge harmful norms, and provide individuals with the knowledge and skills required for meaningful change. In addition to educating students and staff on VAW-related issues, higher education institutions can influence policy change by contributing necessary research. This, in turn, helps create a society where VAW is no longer tolerated.

UNESCO emphasizes the importance of involving higher education in addressing violence against women to create long-term, systemic solutions.

UNESCO will soon release a comprehensive report in support of ongoing efforts to combat violence against women (VAW). This report will examine the experiences of gender-based violence (GBV) in higher education institutions (HEIs) in selected countries. Its purpose is to provide a deeper understanding of the nature and scope of GBV within the unique context of higher education.

The survey results will highlight the specific challenges faced by the academic community and investigate the root causes of gender-based violence (GBV), the barriers to addressing it, and the existing frameworks designed to combat it. The final report, scheduled for publication next year, will provide data-driven insights essential for:
– Policymakers.
– Higher education institutions (HEIs).
– Activists.
– Communities working to address GBV in educational settings.

Source: UNESCO

Collegiate Cricket League Launches in the US

The Collegiate Cricket League (CCL) is bringing global cricket to colleges across the United States.

Bringing Colleges Together Across the Nation to Promote Cricket, with Support from USA Cricket and NCL.

DALLAS, TEXAS, December 5, 2024 — The Collegiate Cricket League (CCL) has proudly announced its official launch, positioning itself as the foremost organization dedicated to collegiate cricket across the United States. As a nonprofit entity, the CCL is set to revolutionize the landscape of college sports by bringing together cricket clubs from coast to coast. Its mission is to create exciting opportunities for student-athletes while establishing a clear pathway for those aspiring to play professional cricket.

With the exciting news that cricket will be included as an Olympic sport in 2028 and its status as the second most popular sport worldwide, the CCL is on a mission to embed cricket into the fabric of American college communities. By fostering a vibrant cricket culture on campuses, the CCL aims to elevate the sport and inspire a new generation of players and fans alike.

The CCL is proud to have the support of USA Cricket, the official governing body for cricket in the United States, which will serve as an essential affiliate partner in this ambitious endeavor. Furthermore, the CCL has partnered with the National Cricket League (NCL), renowned for its ties to international cricket legends. This illustrious roster includes icons such as Sachin Tendulkar, Sir Vivian Richards, Sunil Gavaskar, Haroon Lorgat, Wasim Akram, Zaheer Abbas, and Dilip Vengsarkar, all of whom have made significant contributions to the game and serve as inspirations in the cricketing world. Through these collaborations, the CCL is poised to cultivate a thriving cricket community that champions sportsmanship and excellence.

“College sports in America are unique, and the enthusiasm for cricket is extraordinary. Combining these two elements creates an exceptional synergy. The launch of a dynamic and visible college cricket competition like the Collegiate Cricket League (CCL) will significantly enhance the growth of our sport,” said USA Cricket CEO Johnathan Atkeison.

“Cricket can unite people and create opportunities unlike any other sport,” stated Arun Agarwal, Chairman of the National Cricket League. “The Collegiate Cricket League is making a transformative impact by introducing cricket to U.S. campuses in unprecedented ways. This initiative is not just about playing the game; it’s about building a movement that connects student-athletes, universities, and global fans.”

The inaugural season will begin in Spring 2025 and feature student cricket clubs from top universities across the United States and Canada. The participating institutions include:

  • The University of Pennsylvania
  • University of Rochester
  • University of Texas at Dallas
  • University of Michigan
  • Drexel University
  • University of Waterloo
  • Texas A&M University
  • West Virginia University
  • Rice University
  • University of Washington
  • University of Minnesota
  • University of Texas at Arlington
  • University of California, San Diego
  • UCLA
  • Georgetown University
  • George Washington University
  • DePaul University
  • University of Louisville
  • Arkansas State University
  • University of California, Berkeley
  • University of Wisconsin

This diverse group of universities is set to bring exciting cricket action to students and fans alike.

More student clubs are expected to join in the coming months. These teams will compete in a dual-conference format, culminating in the inaugural CCL National Tournament, which boasts a $50,000 prize and the prestigious CCL Trophy.

Cricket boasts a fascinating and extensive history in the United States, stretching back nearly 320 years. The sport’s journey in the U.S. began with the first organized collegiate cricket match in 1864, which pitted the teams of Haverford College and the University of Pennsylvania against each other in a spirited competition. Despite cricket’s decline in popularity compared to other sports over the last century, the Collegiate Cricket League (CCL) is re-energizing the game by introducing an exciting modern format: a fast-paced 10-over (60-ball) match that unfolds in just 90 minutes.

This thrilling version of cricket has captivated audiences around the globe, drawing in new fans and rekindling interest across the United States. With the support of broadcasting partnerships through the National Cricket League (NCL), CCL games are set to reach billions of viewers worldwide. This expansive reach sparks fresh excitement for college cricket and enhances the visibility of the participating universities, allowing them to showcase their athletic programs on an international stage.

“Our vision is to bring cricket stadiums to every university campus, create scholarship opportunities for aspiring student-athletes, and transform cricket clubs into competitive varsity teams,” expressed Steven M. Smith, the Executive Director of the CCL. “As cricket has become an Olympic sport and ranks as the second most popular sport in the world, universities have a remarkable opportunity to enhance their international visibility and engage with a global community.”

Source: National Cricket League USA

Coca-Cola’s Role in India’s Retail Transformation

As India embarks on its journey to transform into a fully developed economy with an ambitious target of reaching $35 trillion by 2047, the non-alcoholic beverage sector emerges as a key pillar in this vision. This dynamic industry fuels economic growth by generating employment opportunities, fostering entrepreneurship, and enhancing value through its extensive and well-established retail networks. By implementing innovative strategies that prioritize consumer preferences and trends, this sector is poised to play a vital role in shaping the future of India’s economy while meeting its population’s diverse tastes and needs.

Amid a rapidly evolving retail landscape, Coca-Cola India is making noteworthy strides to revitalize the country’s retail ecosystem. The Company is rolling out state-of-the-art cooling solutions that equip retailers across India, allowing them to serve refreshing beverages that quench thirst, even during the sweltering summer months.

Moreover, Coca-Cola understands the unique challenges faced by small and medium-sized retailers, so it has introduced the Super Power Retailer Program. This innovative initiative offers a holistic suite of resources and tools tailored to enhance consumers’ shopping experience while simultaneously fostering retailers’ growth and sustainability.

Coca-Cola India’s striking and vibrant coolers have swiftly established themselves as a prominent presence in retail outlets nationwide, significantly improving customer access to chilled beverages. These eye-catching coolers provide consumers with a refreshing experience, especially on hot days, and empower retailers to increase their sales revenue substantially.

Equipped with advanced inventory management features, these state-of-the-art coolers allow store owners to efficiently monitor and manage their stock levels in real-time, ensuring that popular products are always available. The coolers enhance product visibility, drawing in customers with an inviting display of Coca-Cola beverages and guaranteeing that every consumer has the opportunity to enjoy a perfectly chilled drink.

Coca-Cola India’s most cherished offerings are iconic drinks such as Coca-Cola, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, and Diet Coke, alongside regional favorites like Thums Up, vibrant Fanta, zesty Sprite, delicious Maaza, and the wholesome Honest Tea. To further diversify its selections, Coca-Cola provides premium hydration beverages like Smartwater and Bonaqua and elegant choices like Schweppes, appealing to those with a taste for luxury.

Coca-Cola also emphasizes positively impacting communities and the environment. Through initiatives aimed at water replenishment, recycling of packaging materials, and implementing sustainable practices, the Company strives to contribute to a healthier planet.

Transforming Cities: United Nations University’s New Hub at The City College of New York

The United Nations University has launched its first Hub in the U.S. at The City College of New York.

NEW YORK, November 23, 2024 — A new hub for the United Nations University (UNU) focused on Remote Sensing and Sustainable Innovations for Resilient Urban Systems (R-SIRUS) has been established at The City College of New York (CCNY). This announcement was made during a partnership agreement signing ceremony attended by CCNY President Vincent Boudreau and Tshilidzi Marwala, the rector of UNU and under-secretary-general of the United Nations.

Photo: UNU Rector Tshilidzi Marwala and CCNY President Vince Boudreau sign the official Memorandum of Understanding at a ceremony in Steinman Hall on November 5.

This Hub, in collaboration with the UNU Institute for Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH), will link City College of New York (CCNY) to UNU’s global research and educational initiatives. It aims to support the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), enhance international relations, and promote the advancement of sustainable cities.

The UNU Hub, the first in the U.S. and globally to focus on remote sensing and the sustainability challenges of complex urban systems, aims to enhance cities’ adaptability to climate-related issues. Its mission is to foster inclusivity and resilience in urban spaces. This Hub will build on the UN university’s strong science, technology, and urban innovation legacy, serving as a global model for resilient, inclusive, equitable, and sustainable urban development.

Establishing this Hub will foster a collaborative partnership between CCNY and UNU-INWEH, located in Toronto.

“New York City is a perfect location for a hub focused on sustainable urban transformation. This collaboration with CCNY demonstrates a strong commitment to utilizing science and technology to enhance the adaptability and resilience of cities,” said Marwala. “Our partnership with CCNY will benefit New York and support global efforts in urban sustainability through knowledge sharing and capacity building, especially for the Global South.”

The UNU Hub will unite interdisciplinary experts to develop solutions for extreme weather impacts, urban water and energy requirements, and social inequalities urban communities face. The UNU R-SIRUS Hub will focus on three main pillars: Research and Development, Education and Capacity Building, and Policy and Advocacy. These pillars connect scientific innovation with policy-making, delivering actionable solutions to urgent urban challenges.

“Our college has always prioritized the responsibility of public educational institutions to serve the public interest,” said Boudreau. “Over the years, we have made significant investments in remote sensing related to climate change in water and energy systems. This partnership allows us to allocate those resources in ways that will have the greatest public impact, and we are excited to collaborate with UNU on this important work.”

As the academic branch of the United Nations, the Tokyo-based United Nations University (UNU) has 13 institutes across 12 countries. UNU addresses various global development challenges through collaborative research and education. UNU-INWEH focuses on significant sustainability issues, tackling some of the most pressing problems related to water, the environment, and health worldwide.

Kaveh Madani, the Director of UNU-INWEH, highlighted the Hub’s potential to make a significant global impact. “This initiative demonstrates UNU’s dedication to tackling sustainability challenges,” he stated. “By merging UNU’s global perspective with CCNY’s localized expertise, the R-SIRUS Hub will serve as a model for other cities worldwide.”

R-SIRUS’s Policy, Advocacy, and Outreach pillar will work with New York City authorities and international stakeholders to create policies for equitable and sustainable urban transformation. Focusing on environmental justice in underserved communities, this initiative, led by Colin Powell School of Civic and Global Leadership experts, aims to translate scientific research into practical policies that enhance urban resilience and sustainability globally.

Since its establishment in 1847, The City College of New York has been committed to delivering high-quality and affordable education to generations of New Yorkers across a diverse array of disciplines. The institution recognizes its vital role in driving social change. Over 15,000 students are pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees across eight distinct schools and divisions, backed by significant research funding, creativity, and scholarship. In 2023, CCNY inaugurated its most extensive fundraising campaign, “Doing Remarkable Things Together.” This initiative aims to elevate the College’s Foundation assets to over $1 billion to support its educational mission. CCNY epitomizes the diversity, dynamism, and visionary spirit of New York City itself.

Source: The City College of New York