BASURA, PASILIDAD, UNIPORME: Students Address Concerns In Town Hall Meeting
GORDON COLLEGE FUNCTION HALL MAIN BLDG—In an effort to strengthen transparency and communication between the student body and the administration, various students and representatives from different organizations voice out their concerns and proposed solutions on pressing campus issues that affect their daily experiences on the Town Hall Meeting, spearheaded by the Supreme Student Council (SSC) of Gordon College (GC) on November 4, at Gordon College Function Hall Main Bldg.
Among the major issues discussed were concerns with the disappearance of trash bins, restroom malfunctions, and the absence of student lounges, which reflect the everyday struggles of GCians that often go unnoticed. While these may seem like small matters, they collectively define the comfort, cleanliness, and morale of the student body.
Meanwhile, other pressing matters, such as the condition of the main and annex buildings and inconsistent implementation of the dress code, point to deeper issues of transparency, inclusivity, and student welfare.
DISAPPEARANCE OF TRASH BINS: CLEANLINESS AND WASTE MANAGEMENT ISSUES RAISED
Campus cleanliness had been a pressing issue among students following the recent disappearance of trash bins across campus. Students reported that many areas, including restrooms, now lack accessible waste bins, leading to increased littering and cleanliness issues.
Participants suggest restoration of the trash bins throughout the campus to promote cleanliness and for students’ easier access, emphasizing that this could help maintain a clean environment around the campus.
BUILDING FUNCTIONALITY: CALLS FOR BETTER FACILITIES BOTH IN THE MAIN AND ANNEX BUILDINGS
Moreover, the Annex Building, which accommodates a growing number of classes, points to another major concern. Students described poor ventilation, unstable internet connectivity, and a lack of proper equipment—including the sound system in the Function Room—as recurring problems that lessen their productivity.
Furthermore, students also expressed frustrations over the lack of equipment in the Main Building, such as practicums and simulations.
The SSC noted the importance of these concerns and emphasized the need for facility upgrades to ensure a more conducive academic environment, emphasizing that as Gordon College aims to be a university, infrastructure and facility improvements must keep pace with academic demands.
DRESS CODE VIOLATIONS: STUDENTS CALL FOR CONSISTENCY AND CLARITY
One of the most discussed topics was the implementation of the college’s dress code policy. Several students expressed confusion over inconsistent enforcement across departments, citing instances of inconsistency and a lack of clear communication throughout the student body.
“Minsan po navi-violation kami kahit appropriate po ‘yung suot namin [na uniform],” one Bachelor of Science and Tourism Management (BSTM) Student expressed.
Participants also noted that some students are reprimanded for minor violations while others are not held to the same standard.
“Naka-org shirt po ako then ni-question po ako kung bakit [naka-org shirt]. Nag-explain po ako na may event, pero may nauna po sakin na naka-civilian [pero] ‘di po siya ni-question,” another student from College of Education, Arts, and Sciences (CEAS) shared.
In the latter part of the meeting, Gcians requested clearer guidelines and a more uniform implementation across departments to help promote both discipline and inclusivity within the campus community, and avoid misunderstanding and unequal treatment.
STUDENT LOUNGE, RESTROOM, AND OTHER CONCERNS
The functionality and cleanliness of restrooms were also brought up as a long-standing concern. Some facilities were reported to have malfunctioning faucets and dysfunctional doors, toilets, and bidets. Students cite concerns for regular maintenance checks to ensure comfort and hygiene for all.
On the other hand, Participants also voiced out frustrations over the lack of student lounges and rest areas where they can relax, study, or collaborate during vacant periods. Many pointed out that the few available classrooms require permission to be used, forcing students to stay in hallways or stairwells in between classes.
One student from CHTM proposed designating student lounges on each floor to provide space for students as a resolution, citing that this would provide comfort for students.
The SSC assured attendees that all issues and recommendations raised will be compiled and formally addressed to the college administration for further deliberation with the BIBINGKA project, held on November 7, Friday.
The council also promised its commitment to continue facilitating such dialogues to ensure that students’ voices are not only heard but also acted upon. | via Love Lorraine Acedo/The FOREFRONT
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Stay tuned to the BIBINGKA PROJECT highlights for the full report!
CTTO: The Forefront
