University of Sonora introduces new campus commerce regulations

The University of Sonora (Unison) has introduced new guidelines to regulate street and semi-fixed commerce on its Hermosillo campus through the ‘Búho Emprende’ program. The initiative aims to provide students with training, certification, and designated spaces for their economic projects while improving campus security and order.

Under the new rules, a commercial area is being established between the Law and Accounting/Administration schools, offering approximately 64 spaces. Juan Carlos Gálvez Ruiz, the campus administrative director, stated that the program is designed to prevent unauthorized external vendors from entering the institution, which can pose security and health risks. While fixed or semi-fixed vendors will be charged a fee, Unison students will be exempt from these payments.

To participate, students must provide their academic schedules to ensure commercial activities do not interfere with class hours. However, the measure has faced criticism from students. Some students have argued that the proposed commercial zone has low foot traffic and have requested the university reinstate the ‘Bazar Universitario’ in the Plaza del Estudiante, which offers more space and higher visibility.