Singapore University of Social Sciences

The objective of OEL338 Food Security Practices in Asia Pacific is to provide students with the conceptual tools and learning experiences to develop a deeper understanding of food security practices vis-à-vis sustainability strategies, with a focus on countries in the Asia Pacific region such as Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines and Australia. This objective will be achieved through a combination of experiential learning, e-learning, classroom activities, Asia Pacific case studies, and participation in an overseas trip to the selected country. Pre-trip local learning journeys will expose students to Singapore’s food security strategies, which will prepare them to analyse and make comparisons between Singapore and the host country, and consider the applicability of new food technology, practical policy options, and best practices in both countries. Students will learn about the challenges and strategies adopted by the host country in meeting the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2 of “Zero Hunger”, which is to end hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture. Through an in-depth study of SDG 2, students will recognise the interlinkages among the need to support sustainable agriculture, empower small farmers, promote gender equality, end rural poverty, ensure healthy lifestyles, and tackle climate change, in the pursuit of food security. Through interactive sessions with individuals from the private sector, government bodies, and non-governmental organisations, students will gain insights to the social, political, cultural, and economic dimensions that influence the host country’s food security policies and programmes. They will uncover the considerations of the host country in decision-making about food security and sustainability policies. These experiences will strengthen students’ ability to reflect on the importance of food security for sustainable development and to recognise the interconnectedness of local, regional, and global food security networks.