By Daniel P. Tapaoan, Jr. 

After two years, the once empty colleges, classrooms, streets and hallways of Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) were again filled by students who are up and action-ready for full face-to-face classes starting today, August 25. 

Around 15,000 students in all levels happily entered the gates of the university to experience MMSU’s brand of quality education as they attend in-person classes this First Semester of Academic Year 2022-2023. 

To officially start the new academic year, a university-wide opening and general orientation program for some 4,500 first year college students is being conducted today at the MMSU Covered Court. 

“Your presence here is not an accident. It is your mark of excellence because you all passed the rigors of the admission and enrolment processes. This activity is a manifestation that you deserve to be in this university,” beamed MMSU President Shirley C. Agrupis as she welcomed the new Stallions. 

“Congratulations to all of you, and I hope this number of students that we are welcoming today is the same number that will be graduating after four years,” PSCA said.

MMSU vice president for academic affairs Prima Fe Franco reminded the students to attend classes regularly while observing minimum public health standards in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. She also encouraged them to exert efforts in passing all school requirements, empower themselves with the digital technologies, and enhance their 21st century skills. 

Moreover, the VPAA assured students that has fully complied with the requirements set by the Commission on Higher Education, Department of Health, and component local government units. 

Aeron Joshua Batangan, BA Sociology student, felt delighted as he greeted his fellow freshies. “I feel very excited because finally, after two years of being in online class, I am now here in MMSU, and I believe that I will learn a lot in this emerging premier university,” he shared.  

Livestreamed at the official Facebook page of the university, the event was organized by the MMSU Office of Student Affairs and Services. Its director, Dr. Jan Rich Guira, said the activity is part of a series of activities to be conducted for five days to orient the students with school policies, university offices and facilities. This will include the colleges and departments orientation tomorrow (August 26); online information service on August 27-29; mental wellness day on August 30; and, freshies walk and organization day on August 31. (HLY/JVBT/DPTJ, StratCom)