Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-Being
Overview
At Caraga State University (CSU), the commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3), which aims to ensure good health and well-being, is embedded in its core mission. Recognizing that health and well-being are fundamental to a thriving academic community, CSU actively champions initiatives that promote both physical and mental health among students, faculty, and staff.
CSU’s comprehensive approach to achieving SDG 3 begins with fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. This is achieved through health-focused programs, awareness campaigns, and partnerships with local and national health organizations. These collaborative efforts facilitate the delivery of high-quality healthcare services, preventive care, and wellness activities on campus.
The university takes pride in providing accessible healthcare facilities that cater to the immediate medical needs of its stakeholders. Regular health check-ups, mental health counseling services, and vaccination drives are integral parts of CSU’s commitment. The mental well-being of students and employees is prioritized through workshops, seminars, and support groups that address stress management, resilience, and holistic wellness.
CSU also emphasizes the importance of a balanced lifestyle by integrating physical fitness into its culture. Sports programs, fitness classes, and recreational activities are made readily available to encourage active participation and reduce sedentary habits. Additionally, the university’s nutrition initiatives ensure that healthy food options are provided within campus facilities, promoting good dietary habits.
Research and innovation further reinforce CSU’s dedication to health and well-being. The university conducts studies focused on public health challenges relevant to the region, aiming to develop sustainable solutions and advocate for policy changes that enhance community health.
Through this multi-faceted approach, CSU demonstrates that its commitment to SDG 3 is not just an institutional directive but a continuous effort to create a nurturing and health-oriented academic environment. The university’s dedication to student and employee welfare stands as a testament to its role as a leader in advancing good health and well-being within and beyond the campus.
Metric 3.2 Number graduating in health professions
In 2023, Caraga State University proudly celebrated the graduation of 1,670 students. Of this total, approximately 5.7 percent were graduates from health-related fields, specifically those enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Psychology and the Master of Arts in Guidance and Counseling programs. These programs play a vital role in developing skilled professionals equipped to address mental health, psychological services, and counseling needs within the community and beyond.
The BS Psychology program prepares graduates with a strong foundation in understanding human behavior, mental health, and research methodologies, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to various health and social sectors. Similarly, the Master of Arts in Guidance and Counseling program equips professionals with advanced knowledge and practical skills in providing counseling services, promoting mental wellness, and supporting educational institutions and organizations.
By nurturing graduates in these fields, CSU underscores its commitment to SDG 3 by enhancing the workforce that supports mental health and well-being. The university’s dedication to producing competent health professionals highlights its role as a critical contributor to regional and national health development efforts.
Metric 3.3 Collaborations and Health Services
CSU has collaborations with health institutions to improve health and well-being outcomes.
Caraga State University (CSU) partners with the Department of Health-Caraga (DOH-Caraga). CSU and DOH-Caraga, along with other partner agencies, hosted the Caraga Healthcon 2023 on November 8–9, 2023. The Caraga Health Research and Development Consortium (CHRDC) also organized the event.
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The Caraga State University, along with theC Caraga Health Research and Development Consortium (CHRDC), the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and the Department of Health-Caraga (DOH-Caraga) welcomed its participants for the Caraga Healthcon 2023 at the H.E.R.O Learning Commons Auditorium last November 8-9, 2023. This is the 6th convention that CHRDC has organized to date.
This year’s theme revolved around “Sustainable Development in Caraga: Resilience through Health Research, Technology, and Innovation.” Various academic institutions, agencies, experts, and stakeholders attended the convention to either facilitate or participate in the following activities: Plenary Sessions, 3-minute Pitch to Policymakers Competition, Wellness Sessions, Health Quiz Bowl, Visual Poster Exhibit Contest, Oral Health Research Paper Presentation, and Health Technology Idea Pitching Competition.
CHRDC celebrates Caraga Healthcon 2023, formerly known as Caraga Health Research Forum (CHRF), every November of the year to push on with its mission of ‘addressing health challenges, finding solutions to health issues, and prioritizing health research and development.’
CSU collaborated with the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation for the bloodletting program commandeered to augment the blood supply of the Red Cross and support the needs of those who needed it most especially the students. CSU participated as blood donors to help augment the dwindling blood supply in the Caraga Region.
CSU collaborates with the Provincial Health Office of Agusan del Sur by providing an expert for the Community-Based Suicide Prevention Training of the province.
To celebrate International Men’s Day, CSU collaborated with the regional offices of National Government Agencies (NGAs), Attached Agencies and Bureaus, Government-Owned and Controlled Corporations (GOCCs), State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), Local Government Units (tGUs) and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs). The celebration centered around men’s role and participation in family life. Its objectives are to emphasize men’s health, improve gender relations, draw attention to positive male role models, and foster positive male-oriented representation. The celebration also highlights how important it is to recognize and appreciate men and boys and encourage those who actively work to improve their health and general well-being on a global scale.
CSU collaborated with the RDC-RGADC to be oriented regarding the Safe Space Act and Prohibition on Child Marriage Law. CSU collaborated with the same office in the celebration of the National Women’s Month. It is committed to pursuing gender and development programs and women empowerment campaigns.
MOA with GK Abilan fortifies School of Medicine’s community engagement. The Caraga State University furthers its plans for the realization of the School of Medicine as it formalized a pioneering partnership with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Barangay Abilan and Gawad Kalinga-Abilan (GK Abilan) through the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) last, October 19, 2023. The momentous event signifies a collaborative effort to provide essential medical and clinical training for the university’s School of Medicine program through community engagement.
Link: https://www.carsu.edu.ph/?q=topics/gawad-kalinga
3.3.2 Health Outreach Programs
CSU delivers outreach programs and projects in the local community to improve or promote health and well-being, including topics related to good health and well-being. CSU reached out to Sibagat National High School of Home Industries for its program geared towards peace advocacy and promotion; advancement in education; social welfare support; and advocacies and prevention of health-related Issues. CSU conducts mental health seminar workshops for students, faculty, and barangay health workers.
The CSU students, faculty, and staff reached out to Taligaman National High School to address their local social issues and contribute to the well-being of the community. It also includes organizing awareness campaigns and initiatives related to environmental conservation, health and sanitation, and sustainable development.
Link: Taligaman NHS Training-Workshop on Counseling and Social Work for HumSS Learners
CSU reached out to the barangay Baan Km. 3 to engage with the community through its extension program. The linkage started with a focused group discussion Proper, where the participants were grouped according to their roles in the community and were allowed to express their observations and suggested training and services to achieve good mental health. This linkage is directed at assisting the Wellness Sanctuary of the barangay, whose objectives include promoting awareness among residents of the mental health care project of the Barangay; providing refuge to individuals experiencing mental health concerns; rebuilding self-esteem and confidence among survivors of mental health issues or other cases such as those related to VAWC; uplifting the children’s social, spiritual, and emotional conditions especially during crisis situations, and providing services that address appropriately the different mental health concerns of the community.
Metric 3.3.3 Shared Sports Facilities
CSU shares sports facilities with the local community. The Buffalo Blitzers football team used for free the open field of CSU for their regular Saturday and Sunday practices. The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) requested CSU to use its facilities, including the football field, to conduct the Bagong Lipunan Serbisyo fair.
CHED, during its Founding Anniversary, was allowed to use the CSU grounds for their lined-up activities.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel in their Field Training Practice were allowed to use the open grounds for free so that the PNP could carry out their mandatory jogging activity as part of their training.
The Department of Education Caraga Region used the swimming, track, oval, and grounds during its Regional Sports Competition.
3.3.4 Sexual and Reproductive Health Care Services for Students
CSU endeavors to provide students access to sexual and reproductive healthcare services, including information and education services. It actively responded to Amoma Caraga, Inc in its efforts to serve people living with AIDS with a mission to promote, protect, and improve the lifelong health of individuals and communities.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel in their Field Training Practice were allowed to use the open grounds for free so that the PNP could carry out their mandatory jogging activity as part of their training.
The Department of Education Caraga Region used the swimming, track, oval, and grounds during its Regional Sports Competition.
3.3.4 Sexual and Reproductive Health Care Services for Students
CSU endeavors to provide students access to sexual and reproductive healthcare services, including information and education services. It actively responded to Amoma Caraga, Inc in its efforts to serve people living with AIDS with a mission to promote, protect, and improve the lifelong health of individuals and communities.
3.3.5 Mental Health Support for Students
The project, “Kapetorya for Mental Wellbeing,” is designed to respond to the needs for mental health, break the stigma related to mental health issues, and make mental health and well-being services available for everyone. The project aims to encourage students to normalize seeking help when in a mental health crisis or when they need to talk to someone. Specifically, this project aims to encourage students to normalize help-seeking behavior through available.
These following links to be opened provided for the following information:
Caraga State University – Psychology Department
Hello CSUans!
Take a break from your Finals week preparation and join us at KAPETORYA for some refreshing sessions. Let’s recharge, share study tips, support each other, and conquer finals week together! ☕️💪
Kapetorya will be open tomorrow, June 14, 2023 at 2:30pm-3:30pm. To register kindly fill-out this form: https://forms.gle/zNtYbn8gwffXtBK27 or you may SCAN the QR Code in the image below. The sessions are FREE and slots are limited so make sure you secure your preferred time for sessions asap 😉. This pre-reg form will close later, at 6 pm.
Remember, self-care is key to success during finals! Maong ali na! Storya2 ug mag kape2 napod ta ninyo! The KAPETORYA is located in the Library Cafe, 3rd floor of HERO Learning Commons.
We will be waiting for you! Please be there before your preferred selected time. Free coffee and snacks will be served! See you! 😊🫰☕️
P.S. We encourage the participants to bring their own cups to minimize trash and help maintain an eco-friendly environment 🍃.
You’ve got this CSUans! Good luck with your exams and all the hustle this FINALS WEEK! 🌟💪
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/dmnzqMxjTuRTyJQ2/
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/RCen1smMvxvoLTwV
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/ynuTbDjDsCgDxx9G/
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/25fP93PQKB3BGZeB/
There was the conduct of seminars for students on topics such as coping mechanisms, grit, and emerging adulthood. (The link is in the excel file: CSU Impact + 2025; cant copy it)
During its alumni homecoming, the CSU Alumni Association promoted mental well-being by incorporating physical exercises into its activities program. The school administration, faculty, staff, and alumni participated in this.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19Ws4B6oCX/
The Guidance and Counseling Staff equipped themselves with Psychological First Aid that aims to reduce stress symptoms and assist in a healthy recovery of the students in the immediate aftermath of a disaster.
The Guidance and Counseling Office participated in the R.A.C.E. Against Suicide training during the AGCCI Annual Regional Convention. The trained staff will pass on their knowledge by conducting similar sessions at the school. Participants were trained to “recognize signs of distress, ask and assess risk levels, communicate effectively, and engage” (RACE) with students who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts.
3.3.6 Smoke-free Policy
CSU enforces a smoke-free policy outlined in its Student Handbook. By attending, students agree to the “No Smoking Policy” and understand the consequences of any violations.
Document link: https://www.carsu.edu.ph/sites
Screenshots from the policy:
3.3.7 Mental Health Support for Staff
CSU is committed to supporting the well-being of the CSU community. The Committee for Welfare and Benefits has been working diligently to provide a dependable, affordable, and inclusive healthcare coverage plan for all administrative and academic staff, regardless of their employment status.
Also, the members of the University Administrative Council are enjoined to participate in the free Healthy Lifestyle seminar of Dr. Lily Huang, Medical Doctor, Nutritionist, and CRp International Coach, on January 12,2O23, at H.E.R.O Learning Commons, conference room. The discussion covered topics such as Weight Management, Body-Environment pH Balance, Reduce Heart Disease, Enhance Immune System, and Reduce High Blood pressure. The activity is vital in achieving and promoting healthier for an efficient and effective delivery of services to the University workforce.
OP Ref. No. 2023-2-1978
OP Ref. No. 2023-2-928
OP Ref. No. 2023-2-2737
BOR Res. No. 50-22, s. 2019 CSU Student Handbook
BOR Res. No. 58-15, s. 2021 Addendum to the Student Handbook
K. Proposed Addendum to the Student Handbook
Student Handbook Final Revision
Building Partnerships for the Sustainable Development Goals
Caraga State University (CSU) has been actively building partnerships with a diverse range of organizations, both local and international, reflecting its commitment to advancing research, community development, and educational initiatives. The university’s partnerships in 2023, documented in a detailed list, emphasize collaborative engagements in areas spanning community welfare, technological development, agriculture, and environmental sustainability. Each Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) and Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) demonstrates CSU’s strategic alignment with government agencies, private sector partners, and international academic institutions to address regional and global challenges.
One of CSU’s prominent partnerships includes its collaboration with local government units (LGUs) and community organizations to foster development initiatives directly benefiting local communities. For instance, the MOA with Brgy. La Januza and the Gawad Kalinga Community Development Foundation represents a grassroots approach to social upliftment, aiming to address housing and community needs in Surigao del Norte. This partnership underlines CSU’s commitment to sustainable community development, a goal further extended through a similar partnership with Brgy. Abilan and the Gawad Kalinga Abilan Village in Butuan City. These initiatives highlight the university’s dedication to directly supporting marginalized communities, emphasizing its role as a vital contributor to local socio-economic growth.
Another significant sector that CSU focuses on through partnerships is health. The university’s MOA with MJ Santos Hospital underscores CSU’s contribution to healthcare advancements and potentially collaborative research in the health sciences. This partnership not only opens pathways for student internships but also aligns with CSU’s broader objective of integrating scientific research and healthcare services to improve the quality of life within the region.
CSU also prioritizes research and innovation in science and technology through collaborations with notable organizations and institutions. For example, the MOA with Bulacan State University and Huawei Technologies showcases CSU’s commitment to technological innovation. Huawei’s involvement potentially brings cutting-edge technologies and resources that can elevate CSU’s capacity in digital and technological education, ensuring that students and faculty members gain exposure to advanced tools and methodologies. This partnership is particularly significant in preparing CSU’s stakeholders for the demands of a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
Agricultural development, a crucial industry for the Caraga region, is well represented in CSU’s partnership portfolio. The university’s engagements with the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Bureau of Agricultural Engineering aim to support research and development in sustainable agriculture. These collaborations potentially cover innovations in biotechnology and farm mechanization, promoting modern, efficient farming practices that could be transformative for the region’s agriculture-dependent economy. The university’s additional partnership with DA for the ‘Farm Vista’ project further solidifies its role as an academic institution that integrates agricultural expertise and regional needs, particularly in terms of sustainable farming.
Environmental sustainability is also a central theme in CSU’s partnerships. Collaborations with entities like the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) are vital for enhancing CSU’s research on disaster preparedness and environmental conservation. Similarly, the university’s alliance with DENR Region 13 highlights CSU’s commitment to environmental protection, enabling initiatives that can help mitigate the impacts of climate change, particularly relevant for the Philippines’ disaster-prone regions.
International partnerships play a prominent role in CSU’s global engagement strategy. Collaborations with institutions such as Hokkaido University, UP Diliman’s National Institute of Physics, and Stavanger University signify CSU’s goal to expand its research horizons and academic influence beyond the Philippines. Such international partnerships facilitate knowledge exchange, collaborative research, and even student and faculty mobility, enriching the university’s academic community and reinforcing its international standing. The MOU with Silla University in South Korea represents another valuable cross-border educational exchange that could bring significant benefits to CSU’s educational programs.
Moreover, CSU has also extended its partnerships into the realm of policy and governance. An MOU with NEDA-Caraga suggests that CSU is contributing to regional policy planning, potentially providing research-based insights that support sustainable development initiatives. This partnership reflects CSU’s increasing involvement in policymaking processes, ensuring that the university’s expertise in research and innovation actively informs the region’s developmental strategies.
Caraga State University’s diverse and strategic partnerships underscore its role as a key driver of regional development and innovation. By actively engaging with various sectors, CSU not only enhances its academic and research capabilities but also positions itself as a critical agent of positive change, addressing both local and global challenges. These partnerships showcase CSU’s commitment to creating a sustainable and prosperous future for the Caraga region, establishing a framework where education, research, and community development coalesce to make a lasting impact. Through these collaborations, CSU continues to empower its students, faculty, and communities, aligning with its mission of fostering a dynamic and inclusive environment for learning and development.
The date received from the Office of the President | OP Reference Slip Number | Document |
09/28/2023 | 2023-2-3494 | Memorandum of Agreement between CSU, Brgy. La Januza, GL, SDN, and Gawad Kalinga Community Dev’t Foundation, Inc. |
09/28/2023 | 2023-2-3494 | Memorandum of Agreement between CSU, LGU of Sibagat, ADS, and ECOWEB |
09/29/2023 | 2023-1-5883 | Memorandum of Agreement between CSU and MJ Santos Hospital |
09/29/2023 | 2023-1-5883 | Memorandum of Agreement between CSU, Brgy. Abilan, Butuan City, and Gawad Kalinga – Abilan Village |
09/29/2023 | 2023-1-5890 | Memorandum of Agreement between CSU, DA, and DOST |
09/28/2023 | 2023-1-5872 | Memorandum of Agreement between CSU, SumMo, and Apex Mining Co. Inc., |
10/09/2023 | 2023-1-6057 | Memorandum of Agreement between CSU, Bulacan State University, and Huawei Technologies |
10/10/2023 | 2023-1-6156 | Memorandum of Understanding between CSU and Project Caraga Group, Inc. |
10/18/2023 | 2023-1-6456 | Memorandum of Agreement between CSU and MSU-IIT NMPC |
10/19/2023 | 2023-1-6498/1-4599 | Memorandum of Agreement between CSU and LGU – Alegria, SDN |
10/24/2023 | 2023-1-6617 | Memorandum of Understanding between CSU and USEP |
10/24/2023 | 2023-1-6617 | Memorandum of Agreement between CSU and PHIVOLCS |
10/26/2023 | 2023-2-3922 | Memorandum of Agreement between CSU and LANDBANK Countryside Development Foundation |
11/03/2023 | 2023-1-6733 | Memorandum of Agreement between CSU and Department of Agriculture – Biotech |
11/06/2023 | 2023-2-4018 | Memorandum of Agreement between CSU, DOST, BLGU Lawan-Lawan, and SAFABAI |
11/08/2023 | 2023-1-6886 | Memorandum of Agreement between CSU and DENR RO 13 |