The Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA) continues to advance SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions by reinforcing systems that embody transparency, accountability, and participatory governance. Through its proactive Board of Regents (BOR) and leadership councils, the University consistently upholds good governance practices that ensure integrity in institutional operations. Regularly published reports, consultation mechanisms, and open channels for feedback demonstrate CBSUA’s commitment to fostering trust within the academic community.
A core component of this commitment is the University’s effort to sustain transparent decision-making and policy development. The BOR and key administrative bodies uphold clear procedures in approving programs, partnerships, and budget allocations. Public posting of resolutions, open access to information, and comprehensive performance reporting ensure that stakeholders remain informed about university actions. These practices not only enhance accountability but also strengthen the institution’s role as a model of responsible governance in the higher education sector.
CBSUA also promotes student representation and participation, recognizing students as essential partners in institutional development. Student leaders are included in select boards, councils, and committee deliberations, enabling them to contribute to discussions on academic policies, campus welfare, and co-curricular programs. This participatory structure empowers students to engage in democratic processes, nurtures leadership skills, and cultivates a university culture where diverse voices are valued and respected. By embedding student participation in institutional mechanisms, CBSUA sets the foundation for future citizens who value fairness, inclusivity, and responsible leadership.
The University’s commitment to legal literacy and rights education is further reflected in its sustained conduct of trainings, forums, and advocacy sessions. These initiatives cover human rights awareness, safe campus policies, responsibilities of members of the academic community, and procedures for grievance redress. The supportive involvement of the Gender and Development (GAD) Unit ensures that rights education is gender-responsive, intersectional, and aligned with national priorities on protection and empowerment. Such activities help cultivate a well-informed community capable of recognizing and advocating for justice and equity in various contexts.
Through these comprehensive efforts, CBSUA continues to uphold the essence of SDG 16—building peaceful, just, and strong institutions that safeguard the rights of individuals and promote democratic participation. By integrating transparent governance, student engagement, and rights-based education across its programs and operations, the University not only strengthens its institutional capacity but also contributes to a more just and sustainable society. As it continues to expand its SDG-aligned initiatives, CBSUA reaffirms its role as a leading institution championing inclusive and accountable governance in the region.
