Singapore Management University (SMU) achieved significant recognition at the 2024 Triple E Awards, with SMU-X and SMU-X Overseas programmes emerging as finalists in two categories.
Since 2019, the Triple E Awards have celebrated institutions that drive meaningful change by excelling in their “third mission” – creating societal value beyond research and teaching. Focused on innovation, entrepreneurship, and engagement, the awards emphasise the role universities play in addressing complex global challenges and uplifting their communities. Open to higher education institutions and their associated incubators or Technology Transfer Offices, the awards are hosted across the Americas, Europe, Africa, and the Asia-Pacific. A rigorous two-stage selection procedure culminates in the recognition of top-performing institutions and initiatives.
This year, the Award Ceremony was held on 3 September 2024 in Kuala Lumpur, as part of the Accreditation Council for Entrepreneurial and Engaged Universities (ACEEU) Asia-Pacific Forum, where leaders in higher education gathered to advance the role of entrepreneurship and community engagement. Prestigious awards in various categories were presented at the ceremony, with each category recognising five standout institutions and their achievements in entrepreneurship and engagement within higher education. SMU stood out among institutions across the Asia-Pacific region, reaffirming its leadership in innovative education.
SMU-X: Advancing Innovation and Employability
Recognised for its Transforming Academia Through SMU Industry Project-based Experiential Learning (INDEX) initiative, SMU-X emerged 4th place in the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Activators of the Year category. This win bears testament to its exceptional work in fostering an entrepreneurial mindset among students.
Lauded for bridging academic learning with workforce readiness through international exposure and real-world experiences, SMU-X’s Global Industry Integration: Industry Project-Based Experiential Learning Overseas initiative was awarded 3rd place in the Skills and Employability Enhancement of the Year category.
SMU-X Academic Director and Associate Professor, Yuanto Kusnadi said, "Winning an award in the category of Innovation and Entrepreneurship Activators of the Year reflects our commitment to driving industry-forward solutions, empowering bold ideas, and fostering impactful change in the business world. What is more, our award in the category of Skills and Employability Enhancement of the Year showcases SMU’s dedication to empowering individuals with vital skills and overseas exposure, creating pathways to meaningful opportunities in a dynamic global job market.”
Professor Thorsten Kliewe, Chair of ACEEU and Triple E Awards, congratulated SMU on its achievements. He said, "I am delighted to congratulate Singapore Management University’s SMU-X programme on its achievements at this year’s Asia-Pacific Triple E Awards. Securing 4th place in the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Activators of the Year category through their Transforming Academia Through SMU Industry Project-based Experiential Learning (INDEX) initiative highlights their exceptional work in fostering entrepreneurial mindsets and driving innovation within higher education. Their initiative exemplifies significant contributions to promoting entrepreneurship across academia. SMU-X also secured 3rd place in the Skills and Employability Enhancement of the Year category with their Global Industry Integration: Industry Project-Based Experiential Learning Overseas initiative, recognised for effectively bridging academic learning and workforce readiness. This reflects a strong commitment to enhancing students’ employability and skill development.”
Engaged Academic of the Year Award
Adding to SMU’s accolades, Associate Professor Yuanto Kusnadi was named runner-up in the prestigious Engaged Academic of the Year category. Sharing his thoughts about the award, Associate Professor Yuanto Kusnadi said, " Winning this award in the category of Engaged Academic of the Year highlights the impact of engaged scholarship – where knowledge meets industry to inspire young minds and shape the future.”
Professor Thorsten Kliewe also offered his warm congratulations to Associate Professor Yuanto, pointing out how “his dedication to connecting with external stakeholders in meaningful ways showcases the essence of this recognition.”
2024 ACEEU Asia-Pacific Forum: Excellence in Entrepreneurship and Engagement
The 2024 ACEEU Asia-Pacific Forum was held in conjunction with the Triple E Awards. It brought together global leaders to discuss the theme of "Education, Research, and Innovation for Sustainable Development."
This year’s forum emphasised amplifying societal impact through entrepreneurship, community engagement, and cutting-edge technologies in higher education. Mr Kevin Koh, Head of SMU-X was invited to share insights into how SMU equips students with innovation and entrepreneurship skills through various strategic initiatives and programmes, including the award-winning SMU-X programme. He highlighted SMU-X Overseas (SMU-XO), a programme that immerses students in international, entrepreneurial environments to tackle real-world business challenges, in collaboration with global partners. Additionally, SMU-X Lifelong (SMU-XL) was presented as a pioneering model for continuous upskilling, enabling alumni and industry partners to stay agile and innovative in their fields.
The panel also discussed enhancing student entrepreneurial competencies through the use of AI, exploring how technology can tailor support and resources to individual needs, thus enriching the learning experience. The challenges of impact measurement in entrepreneurial initiatives were examined, with a focus on the need for effective metrics to evaluate success and inform future strategies. These discussions underscored SMU-X’s dedication to cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset and adaptability, and equipping students and professionals with skills to thrive and lead in a dynamic, global marketplace.
View the full list of finalists for the 2024 Asia-Pacific Triple E Awards: 2024 Asia-Pacific Triple E Awards Finalists