UNS continues to reinforce its commitment to a healthy campus through active collaboration with public health institutions. One of the key initiatives is a dialogue and discussion with the Indonesian Association of Health Promotion and Education Professionals (PPPKMI) Central Java Chapter, held at the UNS Rectorate Building. The event was attended by more than 120 participants, including lecturers, administrative staff, and students from various faculties.

During the session, Dr. Anung, a representative of PPPKMI, presented national data indicating that 27.02% of Indonesians aged 10 and above—approximately 70 million people—are active smokers, with 7.4% comprising adolescents aged 10–18. Additionally, 74.3% of Indonesians are exposed to second-hand smoke, posing serious public health risks, including in educational environments. He highlighted that universities play a crucial role in promoting and enforcing smoke-free zones, known as Kawasan Tanpa Rokok (KTR).

In response, UNS leadership reaffirmed the university’s commitment to strengthening the implementation of the Smoke-Free and E-Cigarette-Free Campus Policy as part of SDG 3. UNS also declared its readiness to become a pioneer of smoke-free universities in Central Java by rejecting all forms of cooperation, promotion, or sponsorship from the tobacco industry, including those under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) or scholarship schemes. This stance reflects the university’s academic integrity and social responsibility to protect its community from tobacco industry influence and the health hazards of cigarette smoke.

The collaboration yielded several significant outcomes, including a joint declaration in support of the full implementation of smoke-free zones, the establishment of an ad hoc technical team to design a Healthy Campus Action Plan, and an agreement between UNS and PPPKMI for technical assistance, awareness campaigns, and the training of health promotion ambassadors within the university.

As an outcome, this initiative successfully raised awareness among students and staff about the dangers of smoking and the importance of maintaining a smoke-free learning environment. It also contributed to behavioral change toward healthier lifestyles, reduced exposure to passive smoking, and improved air quality and comfort across campus.

To ensure program sustainability, UNS has developed long-term plans, including integrating health and smoke-free education into student orientation programs, holding an annual UNS Healthy Campus Week in collaboration with PPPKMI and the Surakarta Health Office, and installing clear smoke-free zone signage throughout campus areas. The university also plans to conduct regular monitoring and evaluation of policy compliance across faculties and units to ensure effective implementation.

Source : https://uns.ac.id/en/uns-holds-dialogue-with-pppkmi-central-java-on-implementing-smoke-free-zones/ 

Through these ongoing efforts, UNS reinforces its leadership in promoting a smoke-free campus and protecting public health. This initiative not only reduces smoking behavior within the university but also fosters a culture of health awareness and sustainability. By strengthening education, monitoring, and partnerships, UNS continues to contribute to the achievement of SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, serving as a national example of a clean, healthy, and sustainable higher education environment.