As a result of a contextual analysis led by the Quality Managers of each department and the Environmental Management operational team of Unicauca, attached to the Center for Quality Management and Institutional Accreditation, it was possible to identify the main climate risks facing our university. These include extreme weather events such as torrential rains, heat waves, strong winds, floods, forest fires, and droughts. Among the effects these phenomena may cause are, among others, temporary closures of campuses or buildings due to structural damage; disruptions to academic and administrative schedules; and public health issues, including an increase in climate-related illnesses and the proliferation of pests within university facilities.

In this context, the University of Cauca has defined a series of potential operational controls aimed at mitigating these risks, promoting preventive actions and sustainable practices that strengthen environmental resilience. These controls are currently in the process of feasibility assessment with the Academic and Administrative Vice-Rectorships, with the expectation of implementing them in the short and medium term according to the operational and financial capacity of the different areas involved. And if you are wondering what these controls are, here we tell you more, because the process is challenging. Work is underway to update the Preventive Maintenance Program to include the inspection of priority buildings and the cleaning of common areas to prevent pest proliferation; the development of an Early Warning System, coordinated with government entities to activate emergency protocols and organize periodic drills across the entire university community; and finally, but no less importantly, the creation of specific protocols for transitioning to virtual activities or teleworking in the event of a climate risk materializing, as well as adjustments to activity schedules during heat waves.