VSU Launches World Soils Day 2025 with International Lecture Series Featuring Polish Scholars
Visayas State University (VSU) commenced its week-long observance of World Soil Day 2025 with an international lecture series featuring Dr. Marcin Świtońiak and Dr. Przemysław Charzyński from Nicolaus Copernicus University (NCU) in Toruń, Poland. The event, held on December 1, 2025, was themed “Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities.”
Insights from the Lecture
The lecture provided attendees with insights into the World Reference Base for Soil Resources, a global system for soil classification and description. In addition, the session highlighted Poland’s diverse environmental landscapes, geography, culture, and tourism, thereby enriching the international context of soil science education at VSU.
Importance of the Event
The importance of the lecture as an inaugural event for the week was emphasized by Dr. Deejay M. Lumanao, Head of the Department of Soil Science at VSU. He acknowledged the value of learning from soil science experts who are actively engaged in the global community.
Donation of Reference Materials
During their visit, NCU professors presented the VSU Department of Soil Science with reference books on soil science, which will support instructional and research activities. This formal donation occurred during the lecture.
Fellowship Dinner and Future Collaborations
Following the academic event, VSU President Prose Ivy G. Yepes organized a fellowship dinner with the NCU delegation, where discussions regarding potential future academic collaborations took place, particularly in areas of mutual expertise.
Field Activity
On December 2, a field activity was conducted, allowing both students and faculty to apply soil classification methods and observe soil characteristics directly on campus.
Ongoing Research Collaborations
This visit is part of ongoing exchanges and research collaborations between VSU and NCU, facilitated by the Erasmus+ Program, designed to enhance exposure to European scientific practices for students and faculty alike.
Positive Outlook for Future Collaborations
Dr. Suzette B. Lina, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture and Food Science, expressed a positive outlook on future collaborations with NCU under the Erasmus+ framework. She indicated hope for these initiatives to expand instructional, research, and extension programs in soil science.
Global Observances of World Soil Day
Throughout the week, VSU is engaging in global observances of World Soil Day, conducting activities that promote sustainable land use, food security, and environmental stewardship. Additional lectures, field sessions, and educational events are being hosted to enhance the understanding of soil resources in relation to urban development and climate change.
Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals
This initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4: Quality Education; SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
(Source: VSU)
