SISSTEM

On May 23rd, Joel Riven Rajnherc successfully defended his thesis on "Speech-to-text Model for Keyword Spotting Applications in the Papiamento Language within a Healthcare Environment."🎓

He created a speech-to-text system for the Papiamento language to support healthcare in Aruba. Using machine learning to make a convolutional neural network trained on local collected data.

This project promotes language inclusion and shows how tech can empower underrepresented communities.🗣️

We at SISSTEM are very proud of his motivation and hard work as he’s using tech to support Papiamento and make a real impact. 💡💭

Masha pabien & danki Riven!

Join us in celebrating Riven's achievement and consider joining the SISSTEM program to contribute to a sustainable future. Together, we can address global challenges through local & global action. 🌎🌱

Ready to shape your future?

Registration for the University of Aruba is now open from May 15th to July 15th!

Whether you dream of solving real-world problems through science and technology, creating a more sustainable island, supporting your community, or starting your own business, there's a program for you.

Dive into unique opportunities like the SISSTEM program, where you’ll learn how to build sustainable solutions for Aruba and beyond through science, engineering, and innovation.

This is your moment to grow, to lead, and to make an impact.

Take the first step.

Link in bio to explore all programs and apply today!

Join us tomorrow for a 3D printing workshop!

Today, April 14th, marks a historic milestone as Anthony "Tony" Sevold becomes the first Master's student to graduate from the Sustainability for Engineering graduate program. 🎓

His thesis on 'Island scale observation of coastal ecosystems: Equitable scientific instruments for monitoring mangroves in Aruba' explored affordable, open-access methods for mapping coastal ecosystems, focusing on mangroves in Aruba. He evaluated spectral indices and classification models using public satellite imagery to support equitable environmental monitoring. The results show strong potential for accurate, accessible mapping, aiding conservation efforts for climate-vulnerable island communities that rely on coastal protection.

Tony has been a dedicated contributor to sustainable development in Aruba, consistently working on projects that aim to improve the island’s resilience and environmental well-being. Through his work, he sets a powerful example of how engineering and sustainability can come together for the betterment of both people and planet.

We’re extremely proud of him at SISSTEM, not just for this academic achievement, but for the heart, dedication, and vision he brings to everything he does.

Masha Pabien and Cheers to you Tony!✨

Join us in celebrating Tony's achievement and consider joining the SISSTEM program to contribute to a sustainable future. Together, we can address global challenges through local action and research.🌎🌱

On February 20th, Nigel de Cuba presented and successfully defended his thesis on "Opportunities for circularity in the life cycle of tires: A case study of Aruba." 🛞🔄

He analyzed key improvements, main challenges and future solutions when it comes to the tire waste management in Aruba. His study compares two management periods of Serlimar and Ecotech Freezone in the years 2012-2024, highlighting the efficiency gains. It also examined recycling methods like pyrolysis and mechanical processing, along with policies to promote sustainability.

His findings support better data collection, stronger waste regulations, and a shift toward a circular economy.🔍

We're incredibly proud of him of his continuous efforts in the SISSTEM program and with his contributions to improve the waste management system in Aruba.

Thank you and congratulations Nigel!

Join us in Celebrating Nigel's achievement and consider joining the SISSTEM program to contribute to a sustainable future. Together, we can address global challenges through local action and research! 🌱🌎

Congratulations to SISSTEM’s latest Bachelor’s graduate Endy Brooks.

On September 19th, Endy presented his thesis on “The Feasibility of Cultivating Albion Strawberries in a Controlled Vertical Farming Environment in Aruba.” His research plays a role in a diversification program aiming to enhance food security and resilience in Aruba by exploring the potential to grow high-value crops like Albion strawberries. He highlighted the challenges of optimizing environmental conditions but also advocated for solutions to minimize the environmental impact of traditional indoor farming.🍓📚

We are proud to have had Endy in the SISSTEM program and to see his valuable contributions to sustainable agriculture!

Congratulations Endy! Keep up the good work!

Join us in celebrating Endy’s achievement and consider joining the SISSTEM program to contribute to a sustainable future. Together, we can address global challenges through local action and research. 🌱🌎

On September 18th, Shanisse Franken, now a Bachelor’s graduate, successfully defended her thesis on “The Impact of Urbanization and Forest Clearance on Urban Heat Islands in Aruba.” 🎓🎉

Her research shed light on the often-overlooked environmental effects of urbanization and deforestation in Aruba’s tropical dry forest. She emphasized the urgent need for responsible urban planning to protect our Island and to increase our goal for more resilient and sustainable cities. 🏙️

We are incredibly proud of her dedication and contribution to the SISSTEM program and her dedication to a more sustainable future for Aruba.

Masha pabien Shanisse, and best of luck with what comes next!

Join us in celebrating Shanisse’s achievement and consider joining the SISSTEM program to contribute to a sustainable future. Together, we can address global challenges through local action and research.🌎🌱

On August 30th, Alejandra Moreno Ramirez successfully defended her Bachelor’s thesis on “The Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Aruba’s Food Production.” She examined the pandemic’s impact on the island’s food security. Her study revealed that many Arubans turned to local farming during supply chain disruptions, but long-term resilience relies on innovation and sustainable solutions for future food security.🌱📚

We are thankful for her valuable contributions and participation in the SISSTEM program. Her dedication to addressing critical challenges in food security through her research will have a lasting impact.

Congratulations Alejandra, and best of luck in all your future endeavors!

Join us in celebrating Alejandra’s achievement and consider joining the SISSTEM program to contribute to a sustainable future. Together, we can address global challenges through local action and research.🌎🍃

Credit:

Congratulations to Alexandra Ulacio, our latest Bachelor graduate from the SISSTEM program 👩🏻‍🎓🎉

Alexandra successfully defended her thesis “Sorting Waste in a Smart Way” on June 27th, showcasing her innovative solution for improved waste sorting in small island communities. Using a design thinking methodology, she created a user-centered smart bin tailored to the needs of the University of Aruba community ♻️🗑️

Join us in celebrating her achievement and consider joining the SISSTEM program to contribute to a greener future. Together, we can make a difference through local action and research 🌎🌱
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🌿🔬🏛️Calling all future sustainable development leaders! The University of Aruba’s Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Engineering program is now accepting applications for its upcoming cohort, with a specialization in Bio-Environmental Sciences, Information and Data Sciences, or Technology and Engineering. 🌱💡🔧

Are you passionate about sustainable development and eager to play a role in implementing the SDGs in small island states? Do you want to combine your love for STEM with a focus on sustainable development? Then this program is perfect for you! 🌎📈💼

Our 3-year, full-time program is designed to provide you with a strong foundation in STEM theory and applied practice on sustainable development in small island states. With a curriculum that covers mathematics, statistics, physics, biology, chemistry, informatics, geosciences, environmental sciences, bio-economics, and materials engineering, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and skills to make a real impact. 📚🔬🌿

But hurry! The application deadline is fast approaching on July 15th. Don’t miss your chance to join our community of changemakers and make a difference in the world. 🌟🌍💚

Learn more about the program, entry requirements, and financial assistance options by visiting our website. We can’t wait to see what you’ll achieve with us!

🎉 Congratulations to Diego Acevedo, our first PhD graduate from the SISSTEM program!

Diego successfully defend his thesis last May in the newly renovated Maria Convent building. His passion for innovation in sustainable technologies led him to explore desalination, focusing on valorizing its “waste” products. His transdisciplinary research integrates social, economic, and technical aspects, bridging gaps for holistic solutions.

Diego values both positive and negative research outcomes, as they open new paths for inquiry and innovation. He plans to continue his research in energy recovery and magnesium valorization, aiming to implement these innovations in Aruba.

Join us in celebrating Diego’s achievement and consider joining the SISSTEM program to contribute to a sustainable future. Together, we can address global challenges through local action and research 🌎🙌🏼