LocationsWrapping Up a Historic Journey in Sustainable Development!
May 27, 2025
Local NGO Ban Lanta y Planta (Trees for Aruba)
On May 15th, 2025, the UNDP SISSTEM Project Board held its final review meeting to reflect on key achievements, lessons learned, and the operational wrap up of the SISSTEM Project, officially concluding on May 30th, 2025. This milestone marks the successful rehabilitation of the Maria Convent building and the creation of a foundation for green, inclusive, and sustainable academic development in Aruba.
Following the final review meeting of the SISSTEM Project, local environmental NGO Ban Lanta y Planta (Trees for Aruba) planted a native Fofoti tree at the restored Maria Convent building, symbolizing new beginnings and lasting impact. This act of green celebration also sets the stage for the planting of a ‘mini-forest’ at the University of Aruba, with support from UNDP and the KU Leuven project, both funded by the European Union (EU), and with active involvement from university students. The planting begins this September, just before the rainy season, transforming the grounds into a vibrant, shaded study and relaxation space for all.
Mr. Ugo Blanco, UNDP TTMCO, Resident Representative, joins stakeholders in watering the newly planted Fofoti tree.
As a tribute to the historic SISSTEM Project and its legacy, students and staff at the University of Aruba received commemorative t-shirts designed with a message of unity and sustainability: “I 💙 my community” to the front and “I 💙 my planet” to the back, printed proudly in both English and Papiamento, the local language of Aruba.
University of Aruba students proudly showcasing their commemorative t-shirts
These tokens symbolize the deep-rooted commitment of the SISSTEM Project to empower youth, promote sustainability, and foster pride in local and global citizenship. As we transition into the next chapter of the SISSTEM project, we honor the lasting impact it will leave on the people and communities it was built to serve.
#UNDP #SISSTEM #CommunityFirst #PlanetPride #YouthInAction #EUintheCaribbean #Sustainability #Aruba #SustainableDevelopmentGoals