WHEN A TEAM sent by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) came to MMSU to monitor the university’s implementation of Republic Act 9165-the Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, not only were they pleased that the university complied with provisions of the law, they were also impressed with efficient documentation.

The monitoring team, composed of Christian M. Alberto, supervising education program specialist of the CHED Central Office, and Dr. Rey D. Agcaoili of the agency’s regional office, went through the exhibits in a breeze so that what was supposed to be a half-day visit lasted for only over an hour, this despite short notice. Displayed at the Office of Student Affairs were sample materials, clippings, manuals, newsletters, and documents pertinent to RA 9165.

Pursuant to the provisions of the law, MMSU has been conducting seminars on drug education and has integrated the same in curricular subjects, including Sociology 1 and the National Service Training Program, among others. Guidance counselors are also being sent to seminars and conferences to update their knowledge and enhance their competence on the subject matter. Random drug testing, which has been previously conducted in the university by the provincial government, is also in the process of being institutionalized.

MMSU is one of seven HEIs in Region I chosen by CHED for the monitoring activity.