SIKK student-led project earns global recognition at ETF Green Skills Award 2025

5 February 2026

KOTA KINABALU: A student-led sustainability initiative at Sekolah Indonesia Kota Kinabalu (SIKK) has gained international recognition after winning the #ForOurPlanet Award at the European Training Foundation (ETF) Green Skills Award 2025, held in Turin, Italy, on 30 January.

The award recognises excellence in circular economy education and was presented to the SIKK project for its innovative use of black soldier fly bioconversion to transform food waste into compost and animal feed.

Driven by students, the initiative combines hands-on science learning with environmental awareness and behavioural change, while integrating traditional and cultural knowledge into practical sustainability solutions that can be replicated in other communities.

Introduced in 2025 by the ETF in collaboration with the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Environment and the European External Action Service, the #ForOurPlanet Award highlights impactful education initiatives that promote circular economy practices and inclusive climate learning.

The SIKK project stood out for its ability to translate classroom knowledge into real-world applications, empowering students to take the lead in addressing environmental challenges while fostering a culture of sustainability within the school.

Launched in 2021, the Green Skills Award promotes innovative practices supporting circular and carbon-neutral economies. Over five editions, it has received more than 1,350 applications from over 60 countries and generated more than 57,000 public votes.

ETF Director Pilvi Torsti said the strong international response to the awards reflects the growing importance of sustainability-focused skills in education and workforce development.

“The Green Skills Award confirms that skills for sustainability are a global priority. This year’s finalists demonstrated how skills can turn ambition into action, and how local initiatives can deliver solutions with wider relevance.

“Investing in green skills is also essential for competitiveness and preparedness, ensuring that the workforce can adapt to technological change and future shocks,” she said.

Meanwhile, in the main category, North Macedonia took the top prize for its “Best Business Concept for Green Innovation”, a national initiative that engages secondary school and university students in developing practical green entrepreneurship solutions to environmental challenges.

Türkiye placed second with the Solar School Project in Antalya, which equips young people aged between 18 and 29 who are outside the education and labour market with renewable energy skills through a combination of online learning, hands-on training at photovoltaic stations and employment support.

Spain secured third place with POWAR STEAM in Barcelona, an initiative that delivers interactive, data-driven climate education using environmental sensors and a climate simulator to strengthen students’ digital skills, critical thinking and sustainability literacy.

Tunisia and Kazakhstan were also shortlisted among the five finalists selected from more than 250 applications submitted from over 50 countries worldwide.