Jayson Pasaol: Shaping University Engagement for a Sustainable Society

• Magna Charta Observatory appreciated Jayson Pasaol's essay

In the ever-evolving landscape of academia, there are individuals who stand out not only for their exceptional academic contributions but also for their insights into the role of universities in shaping a better society. Jayson Pasaol, a passionate advocate for transformative university engagement, recently received recognition from the Magna Charta Observatory for his essay "Catalysts for Change: Empowering International Filipino Students in Poland and the Philippines to Shape the Future of University Engagement." The award-winning essay offers a thought-provoking perspective on how students can influence their universities to contribute more effectively to society.

Pasaol's essay is deeply rooted in the principles outlined in the Magna Charta Universitatum (MCU) of 2020, which emphasizes the duty of universities to benefit humanity and contribute to sustainability. It explores the various methods and approaches employed by students to empower their universities, ultimately enhancing their societal impact.

The Magna Charta Universitatum is a document that was originally signed by 388 rectors and heads of universities from all over Europe and beyond on 18 September 1988, the 900th anniversary of the University of Bologna. The document contains principles of academic freedom and institutional autonomy as a guideline for good governance and self-understanding of universities in the future. In 2018 a multi-national group was formed to review the Magna Charta Universitatum in the context of changes to universities and the environments in which they operated which had occurred since 1988. UPWr recently joined the Magna Charta Observatory.

How can students influence the university to become more socially engaged?

As an international student hailing from a small island in the Philippines, Pasaol brings a unique perspective to the essay. He shares personal experiences and insights, highlighting the importance of bridging the gap between different approaches to university engagement, promoting cross-cultural collaboration, and sharing best practices. Pasaol's essay delves into specific methods employed in Poland to empower universities, such as student unions, group projects, and peaceful protests.

One of the essay's most notable features is the insightful comparison of engagement approaches between Polish and Philippine universities. – Polish universities are recognized for their emphasis on research and active engagement with society, while Philippine universities adopt a more community-centric approach, prioritizing local needs – says Jayson suggesting that both systems have their strengths and areas for improvement

Pasaol's essay doesn't stop at identifying challenges; it offers practical solutions. He concludes with a strong recommendation for steps to enhance university engagement. These steps include strengthening community partnerships, expanding experiential learning, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, establishing social innovation hubs, integrating social responsibility into the curriculum, and embracing technology. The essay's underlying message emphasizes the pivotal role of students in shaping university engagement to create a more inclusive and sustainable society.

Jayson Pasaol's journey to becoming a PhD student at the Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences is a testament to his dedication and passion for education.– My academic journey began with a Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science, majoring in Hematology and ImmunoSerology. I worked as a Medical Technologist in the largest hospital in the Philippines before embarking on a mission to explore oncology. I earned a full scholarship to study Oncology and Epidemiology in South Korea at the National Cancer Center-Korea, where I obtained my Master's degree – says Jayson.

Before joining the UPWr Doctoral School, Pasaol was an Academic and Research Instructor at the University of Santo Tomas in the Philippines, teaching university students in the fields of Biology and Biotechnology. His decision to join UPWr-Doctoral School during the pandemic, in pursuit of a Doctoral Degree, was a leap of faith. 

Now, in his third year of the PhD program, Pasaol is enthusiastic about the opportunities that lie ahead. He expresses deep gratitude for his supervisor, Prof. Aleksandra Pawlak, whose guidance and support are invaluable. Pasaol's research focuses on Veterinary Oncology and Comparative Oncology, with a groundbreaking study dedicated to developing and evaluating a novel therapeutic approach using PARP inhibitor drugs to combat cancer. His long-term vision is to translate this knowledge for the benefit of humans, bridging the gap between research and application to make a meaningful impact in the world of cancer.

We are excited to announce our signature of the Magna Carta Universitatum - MCU 2020: a global commitment to promote and support academic freedom, institutional autonomy, the connection between teaching and research, social responsibility, and the core values of higher education.

Join us by signing the 2020 MCU and become part of a community committed to continuously improving the future of higher education. Apply here.

#MCU2020 #ResponsibleUniversities #AcademicFreedom

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