ASUU Chairman Explains Tree-Planting Initiative at AFUED, Cites Climate Change and Erosion Control

The Chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Adeyemi Federal University of Education (AFUED), Ondo branch, Dr. Olatubosun Ajisafe, has said the union embarked on a tree-planting exercise to contribute to efforts to combat the effects of climate change within the university.

Ajisafe made this known on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, during a tree-planting exercise organised by the union at its secretariat on the university campus.

Speaking during the exercise, tagged “Let Nature Thrive at AFUED, Protect Our Trees, Preserve Our Green Spaces,” Ajisafe explained that the initiative was conceived by a committee headed by the union’s Vice-Chairman, Dr. Victor Omojeje. He added that the exercise aligned with a directive from the national body of ASUU, which instructed all branches nationwide to undertake tree planting in their respective institutions.

According to him, the initiative was designed not only to control erosion but also to beautify the university environment.

“Climate change is no longer a new threat to us; its effects are already here. We have talked about the changes in temperature in recent times and also about flooding in the environment,” he said.

“One of the simplest and cheapest things to do is to plant trees so that we can control erosion and cool the temperature in our environment.”

He added: “We decided to embark on tree planting in our university to beautify it and manage its soil. That is why the union at the branch level decided to take this initiative today by planting trees first at our secretariat before extending it to other parts of the campus.”

Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor of AFUED, Ondo, Professor Bayode Isaiah Popoola, represented by his Deputy, Professor Ireti Folasade Alao, described the exercise as a commendable initiative.

The university administrator said planting trees would help make the environment greener and more lively, provide fresh air and protect the campus against erosion.

“Trees are also windbreakers. Strong winds are broken by the height of the trees around us. Of course, trees provide shade where we can sit and enjoy the cool breeze and fresh air,” she said.

“As it is said all over the world, when you cut down a tree, you need to plant about ten to replace it. That is why the university is supporting this initiative,” she added.

The tree-planting exercise was officially flagged off by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ireti Folasade Alao. Dr. Victor Omojeje, Dr. Olaniyan Rotimi Francis and Dr. (Mrs.) Mercy Fasehun also participated, with Fasehun planting a coconut tree.

The event was attended by members of the ASUU AFUED branch and other prominent members of the university community.