Students from the Lingayen and Binmaley campuses of Pangasinan State University took a significant step toward environmental leadership by participating in KLIMA ESKWELA: Climate Science, Arts, and Action, a two-day seminar organized by The Climate Reality Project Philippines in partnership with the Climate Change Commission and the Municipal Government of Lingayen. The event was held at Golden Lion Hotel from February 26โ27, 2026.
The Climate Reality Project Philippines, a non-government organization, aims to empower the youth to promote renewable energy, sustainable urban mobility, and innovative approaches that support climate resilience and sustainable development through environmentally oriented initiatives such as KLIMA ESKWELA.
KLIMA ESKWELA is a learning program designed to enhance college studentsโ understanding of climate science, policy, and governance. The capacity-building session seeks to develop a network of student leaders, higher education institutions, and local communities that engage in discussions on the urgency of the climate and plastic crises while promoting sustainable solutions.
The successful conduct of the program in Pangasinan was made possible through the leadership of the ๐จ๐ป๐ถ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ๐๐ถ๐๐ ๐ฃ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ป๐, ๐๐ฟ. ๐๐น๐ฏ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ ๐ . ๐๐ฎ๐น๐ฎ๐, and support of Dr. Weenalei T. Fajardo, Vice President for Academics and Student Services Division of Pangasinan State University, and Ms. Marinuelle T. Aquino, Director for Student and Alumni Affairs, whose efforts guided PSU students toward a stronger commitment to excellence through environmental awareness.
The seminar emphasized the vital role of the youth as catalysts for environmental change, highlighting how individual actions can influence communities and inspire collective efforts in addressing global environmental challenges. It underscored the idea that meaningful change begins with a single voice in the classroom and extends beyond.
During the first day, discussions focused on eco-anxiety, the global and local impacts of climate change, climate action initiatives, the plastic crisis and pollution, and solid waste managementโissues that remain highly relevant and frequently experienced in local communities. The sessions encouraged students to develop inclusive, participatory, and youth-centered solutions to environmental concerns.
Representatives from the Lingayen Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office and the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office also presented strategies and initiatives being implemented at the municipal and provincial levels to address climate change adaptation and reduce emissions.
On the second day, the seminar focused on strengthening studentsโ capacity to lead environmental initiatives through strategic campaigning, project management, and basic policy writing. Resource speakers highlighted the importance of effective environmental communication and community engagement in advancing climate action. Participants were guided through the fundamental steps in developing sustainable projects from identifying environmental issues within their campuses to designing actionable and measurable solutions.
The session also emphasized the role of policy development in institutionalizing environmental programs, encouraging students to craft proposals that support long-term climate action and sustainability efforts. Through workshops and collaborative activities, students shared their campus experiences and proposed initiatives that address environmental concerns within their respective communities, demonstrating their commitment to becoming proactive agents of change.
Genova Ventayen, a first-year BSED Filipino student and Vice Governor of the Student Supreme Council of the Lingayen Campus, emphasized that the seminar reflects the Universityโs commitment beyond academic excellence.
โI learned that in order for us to see change in the world, we must first change ourselves,โ she said, adding that PSU students also play an important role in addressing environmental issues that create meaningful impact in society.
Meanwhile, Lance Phillip Urbien, a third-year BS Fisheries student and President of the Student Supreme Council of the Binmaley Campus, shared that the seminar deepened his awareness of environmental challenges and inspired him to take stronger action.
โAs a PSU student and President of the Student Council, I learned to be the voiceโnot just to be an advocate but also to be a campaigner in battling climate change,โ he said.
Through KLIMA ESKWELA, PSU reaffirms its commitment to fostering environmental awareness and empowering students to take an active role in climate action. The seminar not only enhanced participantsโ knowledge and skills but also strengthened their sense of responsibility toward protecting the environment.
As PSUnians continue to champion sustainability initiatives, the University remains steadfast in its mission to cultivate future indivuals who contribute to building resilient communities and a more sustainable future.
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