BukSU, NMMC ink MOA towards establishing a College of Medicine

Bukidnon State University (BukSU) and Northern Mindanao Medical Center (NMMC) joined forces on October 6 to formalize a memorandum of agreement (MOA), setting the stage for the creation of the BukSU College of Medicine.

This strategic partnership is considered a milestone in BukSU’s ongoing efforts to secure approval from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) for its proposed College of Medicine.

At the MOA signing ceremony, NMMC pledged to provide prospective medical students at BukSU with access to the hospital facilities, enabling them to fulfill their clerkship requirements and gain essential clinical experience vital for the successful completion of the Doctor of Medicine Program.

Dr. Hazel Jean M. Abejuela, the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Chair of the Technical Working Group for the BukSU College of Medicine, hailed this initiative as a momentous achievement for the university, perfectly timed to coincide with the university’s centennial celebration slated for next year.

“As we approach our centennial next year, we would like to continue improving our status in the medical field and to contribute to resolving the current shortage of medical professionals in the country as we aspire to offer a straight degree Doctor of Medicine and MPA with a specialization in Public Healthcare Administration,” said Dr. Abejuela.

BukSU President, Dr. Joy M. Mirasol, reasserted the institution’s unwavering commitment to providing top-tier education and healthcare services. She emphasized that the launch of the College of Medicine signifies BukSU’s dedication to addressing the diverse healthcare demands of the region and ensuring the presence of skilled physicians and healthcare providers attuned to the unique health landscape of the region.

CHED Commissioner and BukSU Board of Regents Chairperson, Jo Mark M. Libre, affirmed that this MOA represents a commitment to delivering quality education that adheres to global standards for culturally sensitive healthcare services.

Among those present at the signing ceremony is fourth-year BS Nursing student Ms. Princess B. Mutia, who expressed her enthusiasm for the College of Medicine, highlighting its potential to benefit Bukidnon residents who will no longer need to travel to distant cities to pursue medical studies.

“The proposed College of Medicine was very feasible and accessible for everyone,” said Mutia.

Another BS Nursing student, Ms. Renelyn F. Sihagan, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the opportunity the College of Medicine presents for aspiring medical professionals to make quality healthcare more accessible in the region.

“I do really want to proceed because I want to create an environment where healthcare is easily accessible. I want to provide high-quality healthcare to people in need. I commend the higher-ups for bringing the College of Medicine to BukSU,” said Sihagan.

Ms. Diane Chelsea Nicole A. Moral, also a BS Nursing student, shared her pride at witnessing the MOA signing and expressed optimism about BukSU’s future.

“It was truly an inspiring moment knowing that I was in the same room as the prominent doctors in Northern Mindanao. Indeed, I have such high hopes for our university for the years to come,” said Moral.

The agreement was signed in the presence of Dr. Jose Chan, Medical Center Chief II of NMMC.

Dr. Chan assured that NMMC will mentor future medical students, fostering their development into compassionate and culture-sensitive physicians. Dr. Chan also said that several NMMC physicians are eager to contribute their expertise as faculty members at the new college. The event garnered significant attendance from Bukidnon 2nd District Representative Atty. John Keith Flores, officials from the local and provincial government units, the Bukidnon Medical Society, and top management of Bukidnon State University signify widespread support and enthusiasm for this groundbreaking partnership and the impending establishment of the BukSU College of Medicine. (Information Unit)