By Nguyen Thi Minh Giang, Senior Program Manager, Schoolab Asia Pacific and student of UEH – University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City –
Sustainability wasn’t something I planned to study—it found me and reshaped my perspective. As a mother of a toddler and newborn baby, a Senior Program Manager at Schoolab, and now a student in Corporate Sustainability and Environmental Management, I’ve seen the power of sustainability in shaping businesses, communities, and economies. Through my journey, I want to share why sustainability education matters and offer guidance to those considering this path.
Why Sustainability? My Aha Moment
Growing up in Ben Tre, Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, I saw firsthand how climate change and environmental challenges impacted livelihoods. Unpredictable weather, increasing salinity, and short-term business decisions affected farmers.
Over time, I realized sustainability wasn’t just theory—it was about people’s lives.
A defining moment came 10 years ago when a black pepper farmer looked at me and said, “Have you ever spent a day on a farm? Do these sustainability principles really apply here in Vietnam?” That question stayed with me. Years later, a university student in a sustainable innovation program asked, “Can our solutions really change the world?”
These experiences reminded me that sustainability isn’t just theory—it’s about real people, real challenges, and real change.
Education is what turns abstract ideas into meaningful action.
Why Study Sustainability When People Don’t Want to Engage?
Many businesses and individuals see sustainability as too complex, costly, or not urgent. But the world is changing, whether we engage or not.
- The Bigger Picture: Climate change, resource depletion, and social inequalities are no longer distant threats. Extreme weather, supply chain disruptions, and consumer demands for ethical practices are forcing businesses and governments to act.
- The Challenges of Tomorrow: Companies that ignore sustainability will struggle. Regulations are tightening, investors demand ESG accountability, and consumers are making conscious choices. Even businesses that overlook ESG will face climate realities—rising temperatures, extreme weather, and resource scarcity will disrupt industries. Adapting isn’t just ethical—it’s essential for survival.
- Vietnam’s Net-Zero Commitment: A Path to Growth: Vietnam’s leadership recognizes this urgency. At COP26, Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính reaffirmed Vietnam’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. This signals a major shift, and businesses aligning with this transition will be better positioned for long-term success.
Choosing to study sustainability isn’t just about passion—it’s about being at the forefront of a necessary transformation.
Choosing the Right Sustainability Program
If you’re considering sustainability, use the Expectation Tree Model:
Find Your Why (The Fruit): Choose a focus that excites you—corporate strategy, circular economy, or environmental science. Think about what impact you want to create and what problems you are most passionate about solving.
Assess Yourself (The Roots): Identify your strengths, weaknesses, and knowledge gaps. Reflect on what skills you already have and what additional expertise you need to develop. Are you strong in analytical thinking, leadership, or innovation? Understanding where you stand will help you chart a more effective learning journey.
Check the Program (The Trunk): Look at curriculum, faculty, and hands-on opportunities. Seek programs that offer a balance of theory and practice, as sustainability is best learned through application. In Vietnam, top programs include USTH, Vietnam Japan University, Hanoi University of Science and Technology, and University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City. Consider mentorship opportunities, industry connections, and the program’s approach to real-world sustainability challenges.
The Value of Sustainability Education
Sustainability isn’t just a concept—it’s a mindset shift. My studies have shown me how sustainability and business strategy go hand in hand. Companies once saw sustainability as a checkbox, but circular economy models and climate resilience strategies now drive both business value and impact.
Beyond work, sustainability education fosters systems thinking, helping us see how climate, social issues, and economies interconnect. This perspective has shaped my work at Schoolab, where I help businesses tackle climate challenges, plastic pollution, and inclusive growth.
Employers are also recognizing sustainability expertise as a competitive advantage. Businesses integrating sustainability will be the ones that thrive.
Sustainability Careers in Vietnam
With sustainability becoming essential, more career opportunities are emerging. You can work in:
- Corporate Sustainability Teams: (ESG, CSR, Public Affairs)
- Consulting: (Helping businesses integrate sustainable strategies)
- NGOs & International Organizations: (Climate action, social impact)
- Startups & Innovation Hubs: (Sustainability-driven solutions)
To prepare, gain hands-on experience through internships, networking, and sustainability projects.
Advice for Future Sustainability Students
If I could give one piece of advice, it would be: Start now. Climate change solutions can’t wait, and the earlier you equip yourself, the greater your impact.
You don’t need to be an environmental scientist to make a difference. Whether your passion is finance, marketing, tech, or agriculture, sustainability will be a game-changer in your field.
For women and young professionals who may think sustainability isn’t for them, this is an opportunity to break barriers and lead. Sustainability education not only opens doors to impactful roles but also empowers you to shape industries and influence decision-making.
The future needs diverse voices, and those who step forward now will be at the forefront of meaningful change.
Final Thoughts: My Mantra
If I can do it, so can you.
It’s never too late—find your motivation, take that first step, and start today.
Vietnam needs sustainability leaders now more than ever. If you’re passionate about making a difference, take the first step –
You might be the one to shape the future we all need.
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