Laureate Impact

A dedication to driving positive change and promoting sustainable practices across the country has earned UPN’s Social Responsibility Manager,Mercedes Cáceres Oyarce, first place in theSustainability Leaders ranking by Perú Sostenible (a national, non-profit association that urges companies to act as change agents in promoting sustainable development).

In commenting on the honor, Mercedes said: “Given education has the power to transform societies, we see it as our role to lead the process in sustainable practices in our country, and contribute more broadly to the 2030 UN Sustainable Development Agenda.”

Mercedes added that the most influential wayUPN can promote sustainability is to integrate it into all aspects of the university’s operations– from incorporating social responsibility and sustainability content in the curricula (ensuring students acquire knowledge about environmental, social and economic issues relevant to sustainable development); to sustainable campus management(adopting eco-efficient management practices inwaste, energy, water, transportation and sustainable procurement); and undertaking sustainability projects that align with the university’s programs and promote collaboration with the community.

One of those community projects is the La Ensenada(‘The Cove’) Health Prevention Project, whichprovides free health services to residents of Lima’sPuente Piedra district and surrounding areas. In2023, 400 students assisted more than 7,000 people with over 30,000 free healthcare appointments.

“Sustainability is crucial for our country’s progress and well-being, and the recognition from Perú Sostenible motivates me to continue championing for sustainable practices that protect our environment, and promote equity and social justice.”