National University Lipa: The Lamentable Lack of Student Spaces
by E.C. Buck
The campus of National University Lipa, a hub of academic activity and potential, should ideally be a place where students not only come to learn but also find spaces to unwind, socialize, and relax during vacant hours. However, the stark reality facing students on this campus is the woeful inadequacy of available spaces. It’s a concern that has left many students struggling to kill time and find respite, even within the confines of the library.
The Desperate Search for Spaces
Picture this: a student with a couple of hours between classes, looking for a spot to read, chat with friends, or simply decompress. The first instinct is often to head to the library, a supposed sanctuary of quiet and study. However, upon reaching the library, the student is greeted with a disheartening sight — every nook and corner occupied, desks fully engaged, and the library’s ambiance bustling rather than serene.
This plight extends beyond the library’s doors. The campus lacks dedicated student spaces where one can comfortably linger during vacant hours. Common areas are either too crowded, reserved for official events, or simply non-existent. The result? Students roaming aimlessly, clutching their textbooks and laptops, in search of a place to call their own.
A Place to Hang, to Reflect, and to Connect
A university campus should be more than just a collection of classrooms. It should be a thriving ecosystem where students can grow not only academically but personally as well. A crucial part of this growth is the ability to connect with peers, engage in meaningful conversations, or simply find a peaceful corner to reflect on the day’s lessons.
The absence of such spaces has profound implications. It fosters isolation, hampers social interaction, and contributes to the feeling of being adrift in a sea of academia. It limits the opportunities for students to engage in extracurricular activities, group discussions, or even solo reflection — all vital components of a well-rounded education.
The Current State of Student Spaces
To add to this issue, it’s important to note that even existing spaces meant for students are often insufficient. The student lounge and the 3rd and 4th floors are known to students, but they, too, have limited capacity. The cafeteria, originally intended for meals, has become a makeshift study area, leaving those who wish to eat with nowhere to go. Students have resorted to studying under the stairs, which not only affects their comfort but also the university’s image as some sit on the floor near the registrar’s office, potentially dirtying their white uniforms.
Chapels on campus are underutilized and could be transformed into serene study areas. Additionally, the classrooms, while available for subject classes, remain inaccessible to students during non-class hours. This issue is exacerbated when teachers are absent, leaving students with no choice but to scatter around the campus, looking lost and pitiful.
Proposed Solutions and the University’s Responsibility
The university must address this pressing matter promptly. Solutions need not be extravagant; a few well-designed areas with seating, power outlets, and a conducive atmosphere can make a world of difference. The administration should allocate spaces within the library specifically for quiet study and group collaboration to strike a balance between those seeking solitude and those engaging in collaborative work.
Moreover, the development of outdoor spaces, shaded areas, or recreational zones can provide students with options to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine while waiting for their next class. Additionally, the university should review its scheduling practices to ensure that students have ample time to hang out, study, and wait for their next subject without feeling scattered or rushed.
In conclusion, the lack of student spaces at National University Lipa is a concern that deserves immediate attention. A vibrant campus should empower students to make the most of their university experience, fostering not only academic growth but also personal development and social connections. It is hoped that the administration will heed this call for change and recognize that providing adequate student spaces is not a luxury but a necessity. In doing so, National University Lipa can create an environment where students don’t have to struggle to find a place to hang, reflect, and connect, but rather a campus that truly supports their holistic development.
