NTU Students Lead Global Conversation on Sustainability Through the Rebel Tartan Project

Working across fashion, product and textile design, students responded to the Keeling tartan story and one of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, demonstrating how creative practice can address climate challenges without unnecessary waste and with the planet’s future in mind.

The project runs over two stages at NTU. First as a six‑week Co‑Lab module for Level 5 students, followed by a ten‑week optional competition brief for MA students. According to the School Lead, it is “a very rewarding project” that allows students to work internationally and develop confidence in sustainable design through discussions with peers from the other side of the world. While the collaborative format can be challenging, the School Lead notes that “those who push through the challenges gain so many transferable skills.”

This focus on global citizenship and responsible design reflects wider shifts in the discipline. As the School Lead explains, “design education is moving beyond materials and techniques to embrace socio-political awareness and systemic thinking,” positioning projects like this as powerful tools for activism and cross‑cultural learning.

International partners echoed this sentiment. Professor Ashish Dhaka of Pearl Academy India highlighted the project’s ability to stretch students creatively, describing how “the hands-on nature of the project keeps students deeply engaged,” and how the freedom to experiment has led to “innovative outcomes that push the boundaries of traditional design.” Ashish also praised the global collaboration, noting that it equips students with skills to “navigate cultural differences and work effectively in international teams.”

Students themselves found the experience both inspiring and eye‑opening. One participant said, “I really enjoyed the research… it gave me a great chance to learn about what’s going on in the world and the designers who are making a difference,” adding that guest lectures, particularly Seema Srivastava’s talk, were “so interesting.”

The project culminates in a competition, with winners receiving a Rebel Tartan Project certificate, global publicity, and a one‑to‑one online portfolio discussion with industry experts across fashion, textiles, trend forecasting, knitwear, menswear and costume design. Finalist work will also feature in a digital exhibition at Bunka, Japan.

Reflecting on the overall impact, the School summarised that working internationally is “challenging but also confidence building,” offering students invaluable experience and a deeper engagement with sustainability, culture and global design practice.