Dr. Joy Mirasol:  ‘Today, we write the future of a greener, more sustainable university’

Bukidnon State University stakeholders showed unity in the dedication to fostering a culture of environmental responsibility and sustainability among students, employees, and the broader university community by signing the BukSU Sustainability Commitment at the University Mini-Theater on October 25, 2023.

The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) facilitated by the BukSU- Chief Administrative Office sought to inspire and empower students, and employees to make sustainable choices, reduce their ecological footprint, and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Dr. Joy M. Mirasol, SMART BukSU President, inspired the student leaders and BukSU workforce leaders to write the future of a greener, more sustainable BukSU by actively participating to the green initiatives and practice in reducing waste and conserving energy.

The areas of collaboration in the Sustainability Commitment were outlined in the MOA as follows:

Sustainability Initiatives:

This collaboration encapsulates the effort to agree to reduce the environmental impact within the university and its surrounding community. It includes but is not limited to initiatives such as waste reduction, energy efficiency, water conservation, and sustainable transportation. This collaboration involves all stakeholders- students, personnel, and the administration.

Resource Efficiency and Conservation:

The combined efforts of the students, personnel, and the administration are dedicated to conserving energy and water resources within the campus community. This involves a unified commitment to actions like reducing energy wastage and conserving water.

Waste Reduction and Responsible Management:

This concerted effort focuses on fostering a culture of zero waste across the campus. All stakeholders pledge to minimize waste and practice responsible waste management, driven by principles of reducing, refusing, and recycling in their daily routines.

Sustainable Practices:

Students, personnel and the administration unite in this collaboration essential for campus sustainability. It involves measures like consciousness in using single-use plastics and disposable items, supporting energy and resource-saving initiatives, and participating in austerity programs.

Awareness and Education:

The Student Government, BSUFA, NTEA work in tandem with BukSU, especially its administrators, to organize campaigns, workshops, seminars, and events aimed at educating the campus community on sustainability practices. BukSU offers its support by providing access to facilities and resources as needed.

Resource Sharing:

BukSU shares relevant data, information, and reports on sustainability efforts with the Student Government, BSUFA, NTEA. In turn, the Student Government may request additional resources or assistance from BukSU to support their initiatives.

Inclusive Decision-Making:

The Student Government, BSUFA, NTEA actively participate in sustainability planning and decision-making processes at BukSU. This includes representing the student perspective in sustainability committees and working groups, making it an inclusive effort.

Annual Review:

The parties commit to an annual review of their collaborative efforts, assess the impact of sustainability practices, and make necessary adjustments to further their shared objectives.

The Sustainability Commitment Signing was represented by the student leaders of the University Student Government (USG), presidents of the teaching and non-teaching employees associations, VPAA, VPREI, VPAF, VPCASSS, and the University President. (Information Unit)