This year marks the University of Baguio’s 3rd year on Project GROOM ME, which highlights the initiative of the institution to support sustainable development. Under the supervision of the Research Innovation Extension and Community Outreach (RIECO) Office, the project continues to precede economic stewardship and community engagement.
Franklin Jan Wayang, CPA, SBAA Faculty
The School of Business Administration and Accountancy (SBAA) participated in the first batch of this initiative by taking home fruit-bearing seedlings to plant and nurture in their own spaces. This involvement encourages participants to support greener communities, a wider culture of environmental responsibility beyond the campus.
This initiative directly aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDGs):
- SDG 4: Quality Education by fostering environmental awareness and sustainable practices within and beyond the academic environment.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities by encouraging green initiatives that enhance local living spaces.
- SDG 13: Climate Action through efforts that support climate resilience by expanding green cover and reducing carbon footprints.
- SDG 15: Life on Land through the promotion of biodiversity with the planting of fruit-bearing plants and habitat restoration.
The Project GROOM ME’s continued engagement and also with the SBAA’s proactive participation reflects the power of education and the community in working hand in hand towards a sustainable future. A project that demonstrates the University of Baguio’s leadership in nurturing not only the future professionals but also the economic stewards.
The initiative strengthens the idea of shared responsibility. It reminds everyone that caring for the environment is not only the job of leaders or environmental groups but something that needs the effort of all. Small actions like planting, watering, and nurturing seedlings may seem simple, but when done together they create a lasting impact. Through these efforts, the University of Baguio community helps build a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future.
Project GROOM ME also shows the true value of education that goes beyond the classroom. It connects learning with action and teaches students that their role is not only to become professionals but also to become responsible citizens who care for the world around them. With this program, the University of Baguio continues to shape future leaders who are also guardians of the planet.
Written by Ace Lordhene Cabato and Justine Payumo
Photo Courtesy of UB RIECO
