TO CREATE awareness and promote the development programs and services of MMSU, a forum participated by local government units (LGUs) in the province was conducted April 23 at the University Function Hall.

Conceptualized by the Office of the Vice President for Research and Extension, the activity further aimed to explain to the participants the university’s service mandate with the hope to establish a closer relationship with the LGUs.

Among the topics discussed were the university’s scholarship grants for students, and the mature technologies and research breakthroughs ready for commercialization.

“This activity is very timely since MMSU is now gearing all its activities towards its new mission and vision of developing virtuous human resources that are globally competitive and addressing the needs of its constituents and benefactors for inclusive growth,” said MMSU president Miriam E. Pascua.

She explained that inclusive growth means that the university does not only work for instruction, research, and extension but also for income generating projects (IGPs) and other areas that provide substantial income for the university.

She emphasized that although MMSU is the regional center for research and other programs which have gained national and international recognition, it cannot attain its mission and vision without the LGUs who serve as partners in delivering government programs to people.

She encouraged the participants to give feedback so that MMSU can effectively deliver its programs and services to stakeholders.

On the other hand, Provincial Administrator Windell Chua, who was also present during the forum, said partnering with MMSU will help the provincial government to sustain its economic programs for the various LGUs.   Through the consultation forum, he said, LGUs will gain insights on the programs and projects of MMSU which can be of help to their constituents.

“Extension is the heart of the university since the fruit of research would be useless if not used by the end-users. The partnership between MMSU and the LGUs will surely make a difference in Ilocos Norte,” he said.

The activity was attended by 58 participants composed of municipal agriculture officers, municipal planning and development officers, and municipal council members who chair their respective town’s committee on agriculture.
The following served as speakers: Prof. Henedine Aguinaldo, director of the Students Services and Development Office; Drs. Carmelo Esteban, then director of the Research Unit; Dr. Criselda Balisacan and Dr. Dionisio Bucao, staff of the Research Directorate; Dr. Marivic Alimbuyuguen, CAS dean; and Dr. Gliceria S. Pascua, past director of the Extension Unit.