Meru University of Science and Technology (MUST) took a remarkable step toward combating climate change and promoting environmental sustainability by planting 10,000 trees on 15^th November, 2024. This initiative, held on the University fields, brought together the University Council, management board, staff, students and valued partners in a collective effort to champion climate action.

The event underscored MUST’s leadership in environmental conservation, with the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Romanus Odhiambo, highlighting the institution’s impressive forest cover of 14%, nearly double Kenya’s national average of 8%. “This event symbolizes our shared commitment to addressing the climate crisis,” the Vice-Chancellor said. He also expressed heartfelt gratitude to key partners, including Meru Hospice, Kingdom Bank and the World AIDS Day Planning Committee (Meru County), for their unwavering support.

The Chair of the University Council, Prof. James Kanya, emphasized the event’s significance not just for the University but also for the broader community. “The trees we plant today will enrich our environment, fostering a serene and inspiring atmosphere for learning,” he noted. As a forward-looking measure, the Chair proposed implementing a policy requiring every student to plant at least one or two trees annually, ensuring that each graduate leaves a legacy of environmental stewardship with up to eight trees planted during their time at MUST.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor in-charge-of Administration, Finance and Planning, Prof. Charity Gichuki, underscored the University’s meticulous planning and readiness for the event, reaffirming the importance of partnerships in achieving Kenya’s ambitious target of planting 130,000 trees annually. “Today, we make a bold contribution toward a greener, healthier future,” she stated.

Representatives from Kingdom Bank and other partners expressed pride in being part of the University’s mission to protect the environment. Their sentiments echoed the collective spirit of the day, as students, staff and stakeholders enthusiastically participated in the tree-planting exercise, turning words into action.

The planting of 10,000 trees strengthens MUST’s role as a leader in environmental sustainability and climate action. The trees will not only beautify the campus but also serve as a living testament to the university’s unwavering commitment to creating an eco-friendly learning environment and addressing global climate challenges.

As these seedlings take root, so does the university’s vision for a sustainable future, one where every tree planted today stands as a beacon of hope for generations to come.