University Environmental Transformation: Systematization of the Green Universities Program

Abstract

The Green Universities Program, implemented at UNAN-Managua and its Regional University Center Estelí (CUR-Estelí), has consolidated an educational and environmental strategy that promotes sustainability at the university level through the integration of ecological practices, the active participation of the university community and inter-institutional alliances. Through activities such as reforestation, recycling, medicinal gardens, nurseries, electronic waste management and the production of organic fertilizers, environmental awareness and ethical commitment of students, faculty and administrative personnel have been strengthened. The systematization process, based on a participatory qualitative approach, made it possible to recover significant experiences from the 2022-2024 period, showing an evolution from awareness to sustainable community action. The formation of student brigades, the use of digital platforms such as the Virtual Green Office and the incorporation of environmental contents in some careers stand out. Despite the progress made, challenges persist in terms of equitable inclusion, the appropriation of the program by the entire university community and the need to strengthen communication, financing, and knowledge management strategies. The linkage with state institutions, local governments, businesses, and social organizations has been key to the sustainability of the program, generating positive impacts both on campus and in the surrounding communities. Overall, the experience positions UNAN-Managua/CUR-Estelí as a reference in higher environmental education, demonstrating that the transformation towards a sustainable university is possible through the articulation between knowledge, action, and institutional commitment.