The “Blast Off: EMboldening Camaraderie Through Excellence“ event was successfully held On 09 October 2024, at the Audio Visual Room of the Dr. Jose Rizal Building, Saint Louis University (SLU) Main Campus, from 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM.
The event brought together 113 students from the Bachelor of Science in Mining Engineering (BSEM) program to discuss key aspects of their student organization and its future. The primary objectives of the event included presenting the Constitution and By-laws of the organization, outlining its Strategic Plans for future activities, providing an overview of its current financial status, introducing its officers and year batches, and discussing the BSEM program itself.
The event began with a warm welcome and opening remarks from the department head of the Department of Chemical and Mining Engineering; Engr. Daphne Leal outlined the session’s goals and emphasized the importance of transparency and active participation in organizational matters. One of the key sessions focused on the Constitution and By-laws, where the students were given a comprehensive overview of the organization’s guiding principles. This segment was crucial in helping students understand their roles, responsibilities, and the procedures they must follow to ensure smooth operations within the organization. Following this, a discussion on the strategic plans for future events was presented, highlighting efforts to promote camaraderie and foster a sense of unity among the students.
Another important aspect of the event was the financial overview, where the students were briefed on the current funds of the organization, including the sources of income, ongoing fundraising efforts, and how funds would be allocated for upcoming activities. This was a vital component in educating students about financial management within student organizations. The event also provided an opportunity for students to meet the organization’s officers and familiarize themselves with the year batches. This fostered stronger connections and collaboration among students from different year levels.
The event concluded with a session on the BSEM program, where participants were given a detailed overview of the academic framework, opportunities for student involvement, and the alignment of the program with industry trends and global best practices. The closing remarks encouraged students to engage actively in the organization’s future endeavors, emphasizing the importance of teamwork, integrity, and a commitment to excellence.
The event not only strengthened the bond among BSEM students but also aligned with the core values of CICM, particularly in promoting justice, peace, and the integrity of creation. By ensuring transparency, inclusivity, and collective responsibility in the organization’s governance, the event embodied CICM’s commitment to fostering a just and sustainable future. Additionally, the event supported several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequality), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Through this event, students were empowered with the knowledge and resources necessary to contribute to positive social change, foster equality, and build stronger partnerships within their community. (Article and Photos by SLU Mining Engineering Society)
