Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University spearheaded the groundbreaking initiative, “17 Goals, Endless Creativity: The SDG IZN Challenge 2024,” to advance sustainable development through different art mediums. This innovative event has garnered the support of several institutions across Asia, underscoring the growing importance of global partnerships in addressing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

DMMMSU is partnering with a diverse coalition of educational institutions, including WCC Aeronautical and Technological College, Panpacific University Inc., Urdaneta City University, and Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College from the Philippines. The partnership extends beyond national borders, incorporating Van Lang University in Vietnam, Universitas PGRI Semarang and Universitas Kristen Indonesia in Indonesia, Thaksina Business Technological College in Thailand, and EIILM-Kolkata in India.

Dr. Jaime I. Manuel, Jr., DMMMSU President, highlighted the significance of this collaboration, stating, “The SDG IZN Challenge 2024 exemplifies our dedication to promoting sustainable development and nurturing innovation among our students. By working with these distinguished institutions, we provide a unique platform for young minds to tackle some of the world’s most pressing issues.”

The SDG IZN Challenge 2024 featured competitions, including a photography contest, essay writing contest, and jingle-making and music video production contest. These contests encouraged participants to collaborate across borders and disciplines, using their talents to address global challenges.

Here is the list of winners in the different events:

1. ESSAY

1^st PLACE:

Jessica V. Soriano

Tarlac Agricultural University (TAU)

TITLE: “Breaking Barriers: Embracing the diversity and inclusivity of LGBTQIA+ Community”

2^nd PLACE

Vo Ngoc Nguyen Vy

Van Lang University

TITLE: Cultivating a Sustainable Future: The Importance of Fresh Plants and the Role of Consumers

3^rd PLACE

Daniel Mark D. Pangilinan

Mapúa University

Title: Exploring Paths to Climate Action: Foliage for Thermal Cooling

1. PHOTOGRAPHY

1^st Place

Louise Tioxon

Catanduanes State University 

          2^nd Place

          Adrian Kyle Zulueta

          Iloilo Science and Technology University

          3^rd Place

          Jomar Guanzon

          Central Mindanao University

1. JINGLE-MAKING AND MUSIC VIDEO PRODUCTION CONTEST

1^st Place

University of Northern Philippines

Members:

Jessica P. Bayani

Derick Corpuz

Carla Kate Duque

Rica Mae Escobar

Rodd Andrei Bergonia

Irish Kate Garcia

2^nd Place

Pangasinan State University – San Carlos

Members:

John Carlo Tagle

Mark Joriz Ferrer

John Clyde Moises

Francis Miguel Dimalanta

3^rd Place

Northern Philippines College for Maritime, Science & Technology

Members:

Maricar Gomez

Mary Princes Alagna

Rolando Lagria

Raiane Justine Ortaliza

          The winners received cash prizes and certificates awarded during the SDG Forum 2024. (By Jerald Saculles)