Social responsibility at university

There is plenty of talk these days about taking stringent measures to curb over-spending and wastage - both in the public as well as the private sector. I have always believed that this radical change cannot happen overnight or within a short time span, especially given the culture some people have been nurturing over most of their lives. But the idea of creating an accountable and responsible nation cannot be ignored if we expect to improve our competitive position on the global as well as the local scene. The change process has to start from the educational institutes.

One very clear example of social responsibility and accountability can be experienced at the university, where each morning one will notice a long queue of cars heading down the turn off from the Birkirkara bypass towards the university complex in Msida. Every inch of the extensive campus is taken up by parked vehicles - perhaps the idea of car-sharing and making use of public transport needs to be emphasised more clearly to the 9,000-strong student population. Is this practice really sustainable?

I would suggest that special passes for students on public transport and a more reliable timetable for the service could alleviate the congestion on campus. But for those who insist on this comfortable way of travelling - I am afraid there should be a charge (albeit a reasonable one which reflects the student's earning power) of between 25c to 30c per day for parking - this is still less than the cost of public transport but the reason is not profit- but socially-driven.

If students learn through practice that every action which affects the environment has a price, this may change their outlook and make them more responsible and accountable. At least it would be a definite start!