By Vincent C Manus
XU community organizer
XU College of Agriculture Campus in El Gaucho officially opened its first-ever canteen store on 25 September 2025. This canteen is designed to serve as the primary food provider for all Aggie students attending classes at the campus. What makes this initiative special is that the vendors operating the canteen are beneficiary settlers of the El Gaucho community itself, representing an inspiring effort to provide sustainable livelihood opportunities for local residents.
To ensure the highest standards of food quality and safety, all vendors participated in a comprehensive series of food safety trainings and seminars before the opening. This preparation guarantees that every meal served meets health and sanitation requirements, reflecting El Gaucho’s commitment to community welfare and student well-being.
On the opening day of the canteen, Food Technology students, accompanied by SLP representative John Caga and their professor, Ms Josie Igloria, as well as XU El Gaucho Community Organizer Vincent Manus, conducted an on-site inspection. The team evaluated both the facility and the food being served to ensure compliance with safety protocols and proper food handling practices.
As part of their second area of work in the El Gaucho Community, Food Technology students John Ray Besinga and Pamela Rose Uy, under the mentorship of Ms Igloria, presented the results of their food sampling to local vendors. They provided valuable feedback aimed at improving food safety and hygiene standards.
This presentation was a significant component of the students’ engagement in the Service-Learning Program (SLP), emphasizing the importance of food safety education and collaboration with community partners. Through initiatives like this, Xavier University remains dedicated to uplifting the El Gaucho community by empowering residents with the skills and support necessary for self-sufficiency in spiritual, economic, and social aspects, as well as promoting long-term sustainability and well-being.