SUJMA proposes innovative solutions, represents PH in Taiwan global competition
Silliman University Junior Marketing Association (SUJMA) and College of Business Administration (CBA) – Marketing Management Program students Dignity Y. Lagunay and John Edison C. Tubil are PH representatives for the “Go Green with Taiwan” competition.
The Silliman University Junior Marketing Association (SUJMA) has taken a significant step in environmental innovation through their proposal, “Sweet Solutions to the Plastic Crisis: Compostable Sugarcane-based Alternatives,” advancing to the semi-finals in the global “Go Green with Taiwan” competition held online from August 9, 2024 to October 19, 2024.
Dignity Y. Lagunay and John Edison C. Tubil of the College of Business Administration (CBA) – Marketing Management Program are representing the Philippines in this global contest, whose winners will be announced in early November of 2024, organized by the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) and The International Trade Administration (TITA).
Winners of the competition will have the opportunity to present their solutions in Taiwan, engaging with stakeholders focused on sustainability. With the final selection set to be announced in early November, the top three winners will receive a cash prize of $20,000, a fully sponsored trip to Taiwan, and additional promotional support.
The competition, held virtually, allows participants from around the world to submit their proposals online via TAITRA’s official platform. Key activities and announcements are made on the competition’s website, providing mentorship opportunities for those who advance through the stages.
SUJMA’s proposal qualifies in the top 17 global semi-finalists.
Aiming to promote sustainable development, the competition invites innovative proposals that utilize Taiwan’s green products and technologies. This initiative targets urgent environmental challenges such as climate change, waste management, and pollution control, engaging businesses, entrepreneurs, and individuals worldwide.
SUJMA stands out as the sole representative from the Philippines, having bested all other local submissions. The top 17 global semi-finalists include entries from countries such as Hungary, the United Kingdom, Malaysia, Kenya, Canada, India, Ukraine, the UAE, and Singapore, among others, highlighting the international reach of the competition.
“This achievement reflects the dedication and innovative thinking of our students. The same students previously bagged a Top 3 finish in the national competition, Code Green, and led
the successful campaign for the declaration of Climate Emergency at Silliman University, “Asst. Prof. Lou Shien Ban P. Granaderos, the team’s adviser, stated in their report.
“Embedded in this team is the heart for the environment and sustainability. Their commitment to addressing environmental challenges with sustainable solutions demonstrates not only their knowledge but also their drive to make a positive impact. I am confident that their hard work and creative approach will inspire others and pave the way for more meaningful contributions to
Sustainability,” Granaderos added.
Meanwhile, Asst. Prof. Leonidas A. Cañete, CBA’s Marketing Management Program coordinator, also expressed gratitude for the “effusive blessings that the Marketing Program students are reaping.”
The selection process for semifinalists was rigorous, assessing proposals based on feasibility, innovation, environmental impact, and the integration of Taiwanese green solutions. Creative and effective approaches to addressing key environmental issues were paramount in the evaluation.
For now, SUJMA is planning to refine their submission further, with a meeting scheduled with key faculty members including Dr. Wilma Tejero-Libarios, CBA dean; Cañete; and Granaderos. This upcoming meeting will focus on strategies to boost the proposal’s feasibility and environmental impact as SUJMA prepares for the next phase of the competition. The stakes are high, as advancing to the finals could secure them a place among the six finalists competing in Taiwan.
The “Go Green with Taiwan” competition reflects a broader initiative to encourage global sustainability efforts and inspire innovative solutions to environmental challenges. By leveraging Taiwan’s green technologies, the event supports the island’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, emphasizing the power of collaboration for a sustainable future.
