BukSU reinforces community engagement commitment through Extension Projects

With the joint Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Circular No. 1 s. 2016, which emphasizes community service as a metric for assessing state universities and colleges (SUCs) effectiveness, the Bukidnon State University Extension Services and Community Engagement Unit (BukSU-ESCEU) celebrated its Extension Week 2024 on October 14-18, with the theme “From Knowledge to Action: Building Sustainable Communities through Green Solutions.”

“Aligned with this directive, the Extension arm of Bukidnon State University channels its expertise towards fostering inclusive growth, emphasizing our university’s role not just as an academic institution but also as a catalyst for community development,” said BukSU-ESCEU Director Dr. Jiemalyn B. Paulican.

A wide range of events was prepared to strengthen the connection between BukSU and the community.

Opening Ceremony and Project Implementers Forum

BukSU ESCEU hosted the “Growing through Sharing”, dubbed for BukSU’s Monday morning flag-raising activity, at the front lawn of the University Administration Building.  

Following the morning activity, an opening ceremony and forum were held at the BukSU Mini Theater in the afternoon.

Dr. Carina Joane V. Barroso, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Innovations, delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing the importance of extension programs in addressing societal challenges.

“We proudly spotlight our green solutions, showcasing BukSU initiatives that align closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG) which serve as our blueprint for driving positive change,” Barroso said.

Dr. Joy M. Mirasol, President of SMART BukSU, shared her support for the university’s extension initiatives.

A Project Implementers Forum followed, featuring presentations from various BukSU faculty members and community partners. The forum discussed challenges and opportunities in extension project implementation, the transformation of commitment into action, the role of partnerships in successful extension initiatives, and green solutions for local environmental sustainability.

The Extension Project and Product Exhibit at the University Auditorium showcased the innovative projects and initiatives undertaken by BukSU faculty, students, and community partners.

A Health Corner was also set up, offering free health metrics evaluation and vital signs assessment.

Recognition of Extension Partners

The second day of the celebration on October 15, 2024, focused on the dissemination of extension initiatives and recognition of key stakeholders at the BukSU Auditorium.

BukSU’s extension projects have recognized over forty (40) project partners coming from indigenous communities, persons with disabilities (PWD), women, people’s organizations, primary and secondary public academic institutions, religious sectors, and local government units. 

Representatives from various partner organizations, including the Provincial Science and Technology Center-Bukidnon, local government units of Malaybalay City and Lantapan Bukidnon, the Natid-asan Christian Church Community, Inc., and a representative from the Non-Timber Forest Products sector, shared their responses and expressed their appreciation for BukSU’s extension efforts.

“We are one with you in this journey. With BukSU, we have remarkable projects under your leadership. BukSU is an instrument in transferring technologies to the Talaandig Artist Organization. BukSU champions in helping indigenous communities,” Ritche Mae Guno, Provincial Director for Province Science & Technology Center shared.

“We are very happy to be partnering with BukSU for many years. This year we are allocating half million pesos through our Project ADOREE allotted for research in disaster risk reduction and management unit, and one million for research and implementation,” Allan Comiso, Malaybalay City DRRM Unit on behalf of Mayor Pabillaran said.

“We were able to bring to the communities by teaching our people to enhance soil mixing to produce quality products, teaching on vermiculture, food squared 2.0 (soil-less food production through hydroponics),” Pastor Daniel Asuncion, Focal Person to Natid-asan Christian Church Community Inc. expressed.

Student capability development for green sustainability and green solutions

The third day of the celebration provided an avenue for the students to showcase their commitment to environmental sustainability.

Student leaders from the five Student Body Organizations (SBOs), Supreme Student Council, and club officers of the recognized clubs and organizations participated in the capability development.

Renowned experts in the field of environmental sustainability were invited to share their insights and experiences. Ms. Rosanna S. Generato, EnP, Chief Administrative Officer for Administration at BukSU, discussed the university’s green initiatives. Dr. Jessie G. Suson, City Environment and Natural Resources Officer, presented green solutions for local environmental sustainability. Angelie Azcuna Collera, EnP, Center of Human Development Head at the University of Science and Technology in Southeastern Philippines – Cagayan de Oro Campus, also contributed valuable perspectives.

Following the guest speakers, an open forum was conducted to allow participants to ask questions and engage in discussions. The day included with a workshop and presentation of outputs by the student leaders, who had been working on various green projects.

Pamahaw Ta BukSU: Year 3!

A heartwarming initiative to support the community of adopted community in Barangay Can-ayan, through a breakfast-for a-cause was once again initiated the Extension Services and Community Engagement Unit (ESCEU) who gathered the BukSU community to raise funds, and provide much-needed support to the residents of Barangay Canayan, Malaybalay City.

Adopt a Community & Serbisyo Caravan

The Bukidnon State University (BukSU) organized a Serbisyo Caravan, bringing essential services and assistance to the community. A key highlight of the event was the active involvement of BukSU alumni, who generously offered their expertise in various fields.

Doctors, nurses, lawyers, and professionals from the Electronics Technology and Automotive Technology programs were among the alumni who participated. They provided free medical and dental consultations, conducted legal aid clinics, and offered technical support such as electronics repair and automobile troubleshooting. Their contributions demonstrated the lasting impact of a BukSU education and the strong connection between the university and its graduates.

The Serbisyo Caravan also offered a range of other valuable services. A seminar was conducted to promote sustainable agriculture, and seeds, seedlings, and pre-loved items were distributed to the community. Children enjoyed engaging storytelling sessions, while the local learning center received much-needed book donations.

Gabi ng Parangal: RDEA Awards

In commemoration of its 100th year anniversary, the Office of the Vice President for Research, Extension, and Innovations (OVPREI) held the 2024 Research, Development, Extension, and Advocacy (RDEA) Awards held on October 18, 2024, at the Mini Theater.

These awards recognized the exceptional contributions of the BukSU workforce in advancing the goals of SMART Research, Development, and Extension (RDE).

Award Categories:

-PAGDAYU: BukSU Faculty Research Awards

-SU MIGHINANG: BukSU Faculty Innovation Awards

-BULIG: Community Engagement Awards

-GAWAD ALAGAD: Advocacy Awards