Students urged to commit to sustainable practices

Students plant trees at Rongo University in Migori County during the National Tree Planting Day. [Rodgers Otiso, Standard]

Students and staff of Rongo University, Migori County have been urged to embrace the critical role of sustainable practices in combating climate change.

While presiding over an event during the national tree planting day set aside to honour Kenyans who died from recent floods, Vice Chancellor Prof Samuel Gudu highlighted the importance of adhering to government regulations on environmental conservation and called upon staff and students to actively participate in tree planting.

"As an academic institution, we are conscious of our environment and committed to conservation efforts. Planting trees is just one way we can contribute to a better environment," he said.

The VC urged students to prioritise sustainable practices as a means to combat climate change. In his address, he emphasised the importance of proactive environmental stewardship.

He underscored the need for collective action in fostering a culture of sustainability, highlighting tree planting initiatives and caring to maturity not just planting and it's done.

Prof Gudu encouraged the university fraternity to embrace their responsibility in safeguarding the environment and commit to making tangible contributions towards combating climate change.

"The university's efforts go beyond a single day, with plans to plant more than 2,000 trees monthly. Today, we have planted 2,500 trees, and this is just the beginning. We will continue these efforts each month to achieve our institutional goals, " he said.

Also present were Professor Michael Ntabo, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs, Prof Daniel Nyamae and other key dignitaries

Prof Ntabo commended the initiative, stressing the benefits of a clean environment.

"A clean environment purifies the air we breathe and contributes to longer, healthier lives. Not just today, but students and staff should keep the environment clean and pure by planting trees," he said.

In one year, a mature live tree can absorb more than 48 pounds of carbon dioxide, according to the US Forest Service.