Cultivating a Sustainable Mindset in Higher Education

Authors

Martina Tomičić Furjan
University of Zagreb Faculty of Organization and Informatics
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1078-8220
Larisa Hrustek
University of Zagreb Faculty of Organization and Informatics
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6333-2059
Nikola Sakač
University of Zagreb Faculty of Geotechnical Engineering
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5515-2368

Synopsis

Recognizing the critical role that sustainability plays in shaping the future, this study examines various strategies for embedding sustainability into extracurricular programs to enhance student awareness, engagement, and action. This paper highlights successful initiatives that promote environmental stewardship and social responsibility, demonstrating that incorporating sustainability into extracurricular activities not only enriches the educational experience but also nurtures a generation of mindful and proactive leaders. By fostering and encouraging thereby cross-disciplinary collaborations, educators are called to action to prioritize sustainable development in different aspects and areas, ensuring the next generation is equipped to tackle global challenges and contribute to a sustainable future.

Author Biographies

Martina Tomičić Furjan, University of Zagreb Faculty of Organization and Informatics

Martina Tomičić Furjan, PhD, is an associate professor at the University of Zagreb Faculty of Organization and Informatics in Varaždin. Since October 2023, she is the vice-dean for science, projects, and international cooperation at the same Faculty. She specializes in teaching operations management, performance measurement, and digital transformation. Additionally, she is involved in research activities and projects as a member of the Faculty's Laboratory for Business Process Management and Digital Transformation. Her recent work includes developing methodologies and frameworks for digital transformation and innovation in both the public and private sectors.

Varaždin, Croatia. E-mail: martina.tomicic@foi.unizg.hr

Larisa Hrustek, University of Zagreb Faculty of Organization and Informatics

Larisa Hrustek, M.Econ., is a teaching assistant and PhD student at the University of Zagreb Faculty of Organization and Informatics. She teaches courses on operations management, business processes, digital transformation, and performance measurement. As a member of the Laboratory for Business Process Management and Digital Transformation, she has worked on international and national research projects, including Horizon 2020 and Erasmus+ initiatives. Author of around 30 papers, her research focuses on digital transformation, emerging technologies, innovative teaching, and promoting sustainability through digital approaches.

Varaždin, Croatia. E-mail:  larisa.hrustek@foi.unizg.hr

Nikola Sakač, University of Zagreb Faculty of Geotechnical Engineering

Nikola Sakač, PhD, is a full professor at the University of Zagreb Faculty of Geotechnical Engineering, Croatia. Currently he is a vice-dean for science and a head of the Unit for chemical sensors at the Department of Environmental Engineering. His field of research are chemical sensors and biosensors R&D for application in industry, environment and biomedicine.

Varaždin, Croatia. E-mail:  nikola.sakac@gfv.unizg.hr

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Volume

44th International Conference on Organizational Science Development: Human Being, Artificial Intelligence and Organization, Conference Proceedings

Pages

923-934

Published

March 19, 2025

Series

Razvoj organizacijskih znanosti

Categories

Copyright (c) 2025 University of Maribor, University Press

License

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

How to Cite

(Ed.). (2025). Cultivating a Sustainable Mindset in Higher Education. In 44th International Conference on Organizational Science Development: Human Being, Artificial Intelligence and Organization, Conference Proceedings (Vols. 44, pp. 923-934). University of Maribor Press. https://press.um.si/index.php/ump/catalog/book/962/chapter/334