Bukidnon State University Ushers Innovation, Transformation on Valentine’s Day 2025

Bukidnon State University (BukSU) celebrated Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2025, with a series of launches and inaugurations, ushering innovation and transformation under the leadership of University President Dr. Joy M. Mirasol, as part of the 2nd State of the University Address.

“It is no coincidence that Dr. Joy M. Mirasol’s appointment as University President falls on Valentine’s Day,” remarked Dr. Carina Joane V. Barroso, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Innovation. “Her leadership is a gift, guiding BukSU forward with heart, vision, and an unwavering commitment to education and service. Her love for this institution is evident in her bold initiatives and aspiration to elevate BukSU to national and international recognition.”

President Mirasol’s stewardship has been marked by transformative strides, turning vision into tangible impact.

“The SMART BukSU Framework ensured that every research endeavor, extension project, academic program, and service contributes to a lasting difference in the communities BukSU serves,” VP Barroso added.

The celebration highlighted two key special launches: the BukSU College Admission Test (CAT) Automatic Checker and the BukSU Ambassadors.

Dr. Mariza P. Manlagaylay, Director of Institutional Programs on Student Services, announced the acquisition of the Sekonic SR-1800EX Optical Mark Reader. “This machine, capable of processing up to 1,800 test papers per hour, will revolutionize our admissions process, eliminating the need for manual checking and ensuring greater efficiency and accuracy,” Dr. Manlagaylay explained. “This technology sets new standards in educational assessment.”

Bukidnon State University (BukSU) has launched its Student Ambassador Program and introduced ten (10) students selected to serve as ambassadors.

“The program aims to strengthen the university’s branding and promotional efforts by engaging student leaders in key events and materials,” Ms. Christie M. Esperon, lead convenor of the Ambassadors.

BukSU also officially opened two new projects: the Smart Classroom and a newly renovated Audio-Visual Center (AVC).

The Smart Classroom, equipped with interactive displays, virtual collaboration tools, and data analytics platforms, promises to transform learning. “This classroom represents the future of learning,” said Dr. Hazel Jean M. Abejuela, Vice President for Academic Affairs. “It will empower faculty to deliver immersive lessons and provide students with access to virtual professors through Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) and real-time performance analytics.” Dr. Abejuela emphasized that the classroom’s purpose extends beyond technology, aiming to cultivate critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, communication, and citizenship – essential 21st-century competencies.

The renovated AVC, located on the second floor of the College of Public Administration and Governance building, boasts a 176-seat capacity and soundproofing. “This facility is more than just a physical space; it is a hub for creativity, collaboration, and cutting-edge learning experiences,” stated Mr. Dante S. Victoria, Jr., Vice President for Administration and Finance. “Equipped with modern audiovisual technology, it will serve as a venue for academic discussions, research presentations, cultural performances, and community engagements.”

BukSU’s commitment to sustainability was also on display with the launch of an expanded vertical garden featuring Bougainvillea. “This initiative provides a cost-effective and sustainable way to enhance the aesthetics of our campus while contributing to an eco-friendlier environment,” said VP Victoria, Jr. “We aim to expand this project to more areas of the university with the continued support of the community.” The vertical garden initiative addresses budgetary limitations for large-scale repainting while promoting environmental responsibility. (BukSU-Information Unit)