Integrating Sustainability and Community-Building in Higher Education

The Fashion Business Technology (FBT) year managers' team worked in collaboration with students to create a hybrid space that meets the needs and preferences of a large undergraduate cohort (around 500 students). By involving students in the design and implementation of the community space, the team ensures that it resonates with the student body and caters to their social and community-building aspirations. Furthermore, the integration of activities aligning with sustainable development goals, not only considered the social connections needed by the FBT cohort but also considered their broader societal and environmental concerns. This submission has wider resonances beyond the conference by showcasing a model for community-building and engagement that can inspire similar initiatives in other academic departments or institutions. By emphasising the importance of fostering a sense of belonging among students and integrating activities related to sustainable development goals, the submission speaks to broader issues of student well-being, social and environmental responsibility. Moreover, by demonstrating the positive impact of such initiatives on student engagement and satisfaction, the submission may encourage other department or institutions to prioritise community-building efforts by incorporating sustainability principles into extracurricular activities. Additionally, the submission emphasises the importance of student voice and agency in shaping their educational experiences, sparking innovation and fostering stronger connections between students and academics.