This was stated by Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Fauzan during the "National Waste Awareness Action at Schools and Campuses" event in Banjarbaru, South Kalimantan, on Saturday (March 15).
"Campuses play a strategic role in addressing waste issues. The awareness of disposing waste properly is growing, but there are still frequent (waste dump) accumulations that complicate its management," Fauzan said, in the ministry's statement here on Sunday.
Therefore, he emphasized that higher education institutions must actively seek solutions to the waste problems that have long been a challenge in society.
The Deputy Minister stressed that campuses have a strategic role in building environmental awareness and responsibility among the younger generation.
He also highlighted that environmental issues are not only national matters but have become a global concern. Therefore, campus involvement as centers of innovation and solutions is essential.
"The waste problem has existed for a long time and continues to challenge society. Campuses must be present as problem solvers in addressing this environmental issue," he said.
According to him, the synergy between the education and the environment sectors is a strategic step towards achieving a more environmentally friendly Indonesia.
As part of the event, the Minister of Environment, Hanif Faisol Nurofiq, along with Deputy Minister Fauzan, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in environmental protection and management in the higher education sector.
During that event, "environment cadres" whose members are students were also inaugurated.
Through this initiative, the government is optimistic that environmental awareness in schools and campuses will not only become a temporary movement but develop into a sustainable culture.
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Translator: Sean, Kenzu
Editor: Arie Novarina
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