ILIGAN CITY (PIA)--In the heart of Mindanao, the Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) commemorated its 55th Charter Anniversary, symbolizing a rich history of academic excellence and profound commitment to shaping a future of innovation and progress.

Over the years, MSU-IIT has emerged as a shining beacon of education and research, garnering national and international recognition for its unwavering dedication to excellence.

In the year 2022, MSU-IIT earned the prestigious distinction of being recognized as a 3-star university by Quacquarelli Symonds. Furthermore, it proudly secured the eighth position among Philippine Higher Education Institutions in the highly regarded QS World University Rankings, the seventh position among Philippine universities in the UI GreenMetric Ranking, and an impressive fifth spot in the Webometrics Ranking.

Innovation and collaboration

MSU-IIT Chancellor Alizedney Ditucalan shared the Institute’s transformative Vision 2032, built upon six pillars: education, research and innovation, student support, public service, governance, and infrastructure, that outlines a future-centric approach to decision-making, emphasizing innovation and collaboration across all disciplines.

"As we usher in a new era of future-centric and innovation-led decisions, we not only document the performance of the university but also record the passion that gives birth to its visions and the fervor with which we work in order to ensure that these are attained," he said.

Recognizing the vital role of the government in supporting educational institutions, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) pledged unwavering support for MSU-IIT's journey toward a more meaningful future.

"The government, most especially us at the Department of Budget and Management, commits to working with you in your journey to a more meaningful future. We also wish for the continued support and partnership of the DBM and MSU IIT," said Asec. Achilles Gerard Bravo.

Celebrates outstanding contributions

During the celebration, the outstanding contributions of the university's employees were also celebrated through the Praise Service and Praise Outstanding Employees Awards.

Among them were the esteemed Gawad Tsanselor Awardees, recognized for their outstanding achievements. Among the recipients was Dr. Cesar Demayo, who received the Gawad Chancellor Award for Outstanding University Teacher.

"Being a very passionate teacher, I've always introduced the concept of an exploratory, investigatory approach in terms of teaching and research because most of the time we have to encounter variability in our students and research," he said.

Dr. Sergio Canoy Jr., a Ruby Awardee, also expressed his hope of leaving a lasting legacy that endures long after his tenure.

Meanwhile, Dr. Carlito Tabelin, hailed as the Gawad Chancellor Awardee for Outstanding Scientist of the University in the Field of Science and Technology, expressed his hope that this recognition would serve as an inspiration to others in the Institute. He emphasized that if his work could make a difference, so could theirs.

Similarly, Dr. Hernando Bacosa, another Gawad Chancellor Awardee for Outstanding Scientist of the University in the Field of Science and Technology for his remarkable contributions in the field of Agham at Teknolohiya, saw the plaque as a symbol of his excellence and resilience as a professor. He expressed gratitude for the dedication of his advisees, whom he guided during the challenging times of the pandemic.

Other Gawad Tsanselor awardees were Prof. Maria Cecilia Ferolin, the recipient of the Gawad Chancellor Award for the Outstanding Scientist of the University in the Field of Education, Business, and Social Sciences, and Annabelle Gaid, recognized with the Gawad Chancellor Award for Outstanding Administrative Staff of the University.

MSU-IIT also took the opportunity to express its gratitude to its institutional partners, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to the university's success, namely the Philippine Information Agency, the 4th Mechanized Infantry Battalion, the Iligan City Police Office, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, the Department of Science and Technology, and others.

As the university embraces a future filled with innovation, sustainability, and academic excellence, it remains steadfast in its mission to serve the community and create a positive impact on society. With a legacy built on passion and commitment, MSU-IIT continues to inspire and shape future leaders, making strides towards a brighter and more promising future for generations to come. (LELA/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)