The University of Adelaide recently hosted a delegation from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for a three-day visit to explore sustainable collaboration opportunities. The visit, which began on 9 September, focused on strengthening ties between the university and Asia, with the goal of promoting a sustainable future.
Professor Jessica Gallagher, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice President (External Engagement) at the University of Adelaide, highlighted the importance of this international engagement. “The goals and actions of the Asian Development Bank align with the University’s commitment to sustainability and its ambition to lead and deliver positive, sustainable change for good”, she said.
The ADB, the leading development finance institution in the Asia-Pacific, aims to eradicate poverty and foster economic growth across the region. Established in 1966, it provides loans, technical assistance, and equity investments to support social and economic development initiatives. The delegates' visit aligned with the University’s mission to address global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity, and ecosystem preservation.
During the visit, the delegation met with the University’s research and education leaders, as well as external organisations and government representatives, to explore potential collaboration in areas such as artificial intelligence, space technology, entrepreneurship, green energy, and sustainable agriculture.
In addition to ADB officials, the delegation included representatives from the Filipino Departments of Trade and Industry, Agriculture, and Science and Technology, as well as leaders from tertiary institutions in the Philippines, Indonesia, and Vietnam.
The visitors toured key University of Adelaide locations, including the North Terrace and Waite campuses. They also visited innovation hubs like Lot Fourteen, Tonsley Innovation District, and BioMed City, home to the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), to witness ongoing efforts in innovation and sustainability.
