Climate Change Commission Partners with SKSU to Empower Youth for Climate-Resilient Future
The Climate Change Commission (CCC) has joined forces with Sultan Kudarat State University (SKSU) during its 16th University Day and Academic Recognition Day, underscoring the critical role of young people as future climate leaders and partners in building resilient communities across Mindanao. The event, held in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat, celebrated academic excellence while focusing on practical solutions to climate challenges.
Climate Realities in Sultan Kudarat: Beyond Statistics
CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E. A. Borje delivered a powerful message, noting that while Sultan Kudarat is categorized under medium to low exposure to climate hazards according to the National Adaptation Plan (NAP), the province continues to face severe climate impacts. He highlighted how intense heat and flooding directly threaten local livelihoods and families.
"When floods hit Lambayong, Lutayan, and Palimbang, it is not statistics that suffer—it is families. When drought affects Esperanza and Isulan, it is not reports that go hungry—it is the farmers," Borje stated, emphasizing that climate change is no longer a distant issue but a lived reality for communities in the region.
Education and Youth Participation as Key to Climate Response
Borje stressed that education and active youth involvement are essential components of the Philippines' climate adaptation strategy. With over 15,000 students across seven campuses, SKSU was recognized as a strategic center of talent where academic excellence can translate into meaningful local climate action.
The CCC executive encouraged students to become proactive contributors and problem-solvers, asserting that knowledge must ultimately lead to service. He inspired them with the words: "Ang talino ninyo ang magiging panangga ng bayan. Ang kaalaman ninyo ang magiging sandigan ng lalawigan. At ang puso ninyo ang magiging lakas ng Republika."
SKSU's Role in Implementing National Adaptation Plan
The event highlighted the vital function of state colleges and universities in executing the National Adaptation Plan. Adaptation efforts are built not only in policy spaces but also in classrooms, laboratories, farms, and communities. Borje urged SKSU to strengthen its role as a technical partner for local government units in developing climate-resilient solutions tailored to Sultan Kudarat's needs.
SKSU offers a diverse range of academic programs aligned with provincial development priorities, including:
- Agriculture
- Engineering
- Information Technology
- Education
- Health Sciences
Academic Excellence Supporting Local Development
The university's growing academic prowess was evident in the recent achievement of three SKSU graduates who topped licensure examinations for nursing, education, and engineering. This accomplishment underscores SKSU's significant impact in producing professionals crucial to local development and resilience-building initiatives.
The 16th University Day ceremony recognized students who demonstrated exceptional academic performance, perseverance, and commitment to community service. Distinguished attendees included:
- Governor Datu Pax Ali Mangudadatu
- SKSU President Dr. Samson L. Mooa
- Prof. Masrullizam Bin Mat Ibrahim, representing Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka
- University officials, faculty members, and students
This collaboration between the CCC and SKSU marks a significant step toward integrating climate resilience into higher education, empowering the next generation of leaders to address environmental challenges through knowledge, innovation, and dedicated service.
