Sustainable finance education makes a difference both now and in the future

Authors and presenters*

• Dan Daugaard, Tasmanian School of Business and Economics*

• Roger Colbeck, Tasmanian School of Business and Economics*

• Moses Kangogo, Tasmanian School of Business and Economics*

• Richard Ahadzie, Tasmanian School of Business and Economics

• Ayobolawole Ogundipe, Tasmanian School of Business and Economics

• Joaquin Vespignani, Tasmanian School of Business and Economics

Abstract

Incorporating sustainability topics in finance education has made a meaningful impact on our students as people, their future careers, and to the businesses and communities they will influence. This Lightning presentation demonstrates how integrating sustainability elements, such as Green Bonds and Sustainable Banking, into finance education equips our students with the skills needed for an evolving and transforming industry. We have adopted experiential learning approaches (e.g., live case studies and class debates) to enable students to connect theoretical concepts with real-world applications. These methods lift our students’ critical thinking and ethical decision-making, and therefore prepare our students for exciting future careers as well as building a collegiate sustainability culture during their studies.

We highlight student achievements: including successful presentations of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) analysis to industry professionals; site visits to local circular economy activities; and engaging with renewable energy leaders. Further, our graduating students’ careers demonstrate a ripple effect where sustainability education is enabling responsible professionals to influence industry practice. The engagement with industry partners during their learning experiences is strengthening their employability: as businesses increasingly look for sustainability expertise.

The impact of this educational approach is inspiring colleagues to integrate similar practices and fostering a collaborative cross disciplinary academic environment committed to sustainability. By showcasing our examples of student engagement and success, this presentation offers motivation and ideas for sustainability teaching which can transform education and create a lasting positive difference in students' lives. Ultimately, this is an example of equipping the next generation with the skills and mindset to navigate a complex and rapidly changing world.