Lisbon, November 15, 2024 – The United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment, and Health (UNU-INWEH) and ISEL.ID, aka Tech>ID, have formalized their commitment to advancing sustainability and equity through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). Signed during ISEL.ID’s vibrant international launch ceremony, this agreement establishes a framework for collaborative initiatives designed to address some of the most pressing global challenges.
The MOU represents the culmination of a year-long collaborative dialogue, reflecting shared priorities and a unified vision for transformative action. Serving as the Research and Development Center of ISEL (the Instituto Superior de Engenharia de Lisboa), ISEL.ID plans to leverage technological advancements to empower communities and contribute to the fulfilment of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Under the agreement, ISEL.ID and UNU-INWEH will collaborate on research and innovation, capacity building initiatives and knowledge exchange in the areas of sustainability transition, gender equity, regenerative development, environmental conservation, ethical consumption, and behavioral change. The joint initiatives will focus on Portuguese-speaking countries in Africa, South America and Europe, as well as Portugal. This partnership aims to bridge the gap between academic research and real-world applications, ensuring measurable impacts both locally and internationally.
The MOU was signed by the Director of UNU-INWEH and the Chairman of the ISEL.ID Board during TECH>ID’s launch event in Lisbon, Portugal, marking a pivotal moment in its journey as a mission-driven organization. Attended by global stakeholders and thought leaders, the event highlighted ISEL.ID’s bold vision and its commitment to fostering resilience and equity.
Speaking at the ceremony, Professor Kaveh Madani, Director of UNU-INWEH, emphasized the value of collaborative partnerships in bridging the gap between academic research and real-world applications. He expressed strong support for the mission of ISEL.ID, underscoring its potential to drive innovation, empower communities, and catalyze sustainable development on a global scale. During his keynote speech, Professor Madani highlighted the potential power of transformative technological disruptions to address the global sustainability challenges and the need for knowledge exchanges between the Global North and Global South.
The MOU signals a strong commitment by both UNU-INWEH and ISEL.ID to advancing sustainable development, promoting equity, and fostering education and capacity-building for a sustainable future. Through shared efforts, the partnership aims to contribute to the sustainability transition leadership that is critically needed in today’s world.
About UNU-INWEH
UNU-INWEH is one of 13 institutions that form the United Nations University (UNU), the academic arm of the United Nations. Hosted by the Government of Canada, UNU-INWEH focuses on major sustainability challenges, addressing critical water, environmental, and health issues worldwide. Through research, training, capacity building, and knowledge dissemination, UNU-INWEH is dedicated to resolving pressing global challenges that are of concern to the United Nations and its member states.
About ISEL.ID
ISEL.ID, also kown as Tech>ID, serves as the Research and Development Center of the Instituto Superior de Engenharia de Lisboa (ISEL) with its operation centered around “tech with purpose,” focusing on meaningful technological advancements and collaborations, built around research, development, and innovation, entrepreneurship and knowledge transfer. Its mission is to deliver tangible solutions that enhance lives and build resilience across diverse communities. Together, ISEL.ID and its partners are committed to advancing sustainable development, driving meaningful change, and creating a brighter future for communities worldwide.
Media Contact
Sogol Jafarzadeh
UN and Government Relations Coordinator, UNU-INWEH
sogol.jafarzadeh@unu.edu
