MSUMag Launches Groundbreaking for ₱40-Million Learning Resource Center Funded by MBHTE

Mindanao State University-Maguindanao Chancellor Bai Hejira Nefertiti M. Limbona led the groundbreaking ceremony of the 40 million peso 3-storey Learning Resource Center funded project by the Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education (MBHTE), headed by Minister Mohagher Iqbal, represented by Engr. Nurhasim T. Abdula, Chief of the Construction Unit – Education Facilities Section (MBHTE-EFS) on December 3, 2024 at the MSU Field.

Chancellor Limbona stated that the project had been in the making since 2021 and, in 2024, it had finally come to its realization. She extended her gratitude to Minister Mohagher Iqbal of the MBHTE, whose support has made the project possible. She also accentuated that, “This LRC will be a dynamic hub for learning, collaboration, and innovation to empower our students. It has been envisioned to provide a conducive space and environment for learning among our students and stakeholders. This is part of our mission to provide quality education to the Bangsamoro people.” Henceforth, Chancellor Limbona is hopeful that this milestone would inspire further achievements for the university. The completion of the LRC is projected to take 300 days.

Engr. Abdullah, Chief of the Construction Unit – Education Facilities Section reflected on the previous stages of the project during the budget hearing process. He recalled defending the need for the initiative, explaining that before projects are approved, ministries must justify their necessity, since the university falls under the national government. “Ako naman as an MSU graduate from General Santos City, although sabi ko na hindi part ng organizational structure ng MBHTE ang MSU, isa ito sa mga nagpo-produce ng mga professionals na magagamit din natin. Hindi tayo pwedeng mag-rely lang sa support ng National Government sa atin kung kaya rin naman nating suportahan ang mga sarili natin,” he added. “Education is very important in the prosperity of a nation. MSU is a standing university in the Bangsamoro region.” Also, he highlighted the ongoing efforts to build not just at MSU but across the region, with new classrooms and school buildings being established. “It is our chance now para ipakita talaga kung ano yung kakayahan natin, para ma-educate, para ma elevate natin ang quality ng education dito sa ating rehiyon,” he concluded.

In turn, Ustadz Jan Areef Mascud, Moral Enhancement Officer of MBHTE-EFS, implied that this was their second time participating in a groundbreaking ceremony for a project initiated by MBHTE. He acknowledged the leadership of BARMM Chief Minister Alhajj Murad Alawag Ebrahim and highlighted the efforts of the Ministers, especially MBHTE Minister Mohagher Iqbal, in advancing the concept of Moral Governance. This guiding principle, frequently emphasized by BARMM leaders, was explained as a commitment not only to success in this world but also in the hereafter.

It can be remembered that the first groundbreaking ceremony funded and implemented by MBHTE was in 2021 with the construction of a 3-storey dormitory, aimed at supporting student services at the university.

Joining the ceremony were Engr. Bukhari A. Ayob, Area 1 Project Supervisor Engr. Norman Ibad Project Engineer, Maguindanao del Norte, Engr. Abdulbasir Karnain Project Engineer, Maguindanao del Sur, Deans, Directors, SSC and College Student Officers, faculty, and staff.

The Learning Resource Center (LRC) will provide the educational needs of nearly 5,000 students, 360 faculty members and staff, as well as visiting scholars and researchers from the MINSUPALA communities. As the University’s central hub for learning, the construction of the MSU-Maguindanao LRC will enhance students’ educational experiences and contribute to the realization of the Bangsamoro aspirations.

Alhamdullilah! Pagpalain, Bangsamoro.

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