Mindanao State University (MSU) marked a historic moment on May 7, 2025, with the inaugural centralized 54th Commencement Exercises and 10th Moving-Up Ceremony for its 13 external units. The theme was “One MSU-External Units: Fostering a Culture of Excellence through Innovative Leadership and Transformative Education.” Held at the Dimaporo Gymnasium on the main campus in Marawi City, the event united university officials, unit heads, faculty members, staff, and the families of graduates in a single, unified celebration—a first for the university. The total number of senior high school graduates was 969, while 1,303 junior high school students completed their studies.
This historic event, meticulously organized by the Office of the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs (OAVCAA), showcased the collective achievements and potential of MSU’s external units. Dr. Samsia M. Paitao-Dumrang, AVCAA, delivered a warm welcome. In her message, she reflected on the graduating students’ journey, emphasizing years of hard work, goal attainment, and the collaborative spirit of students, faculty, staff, and school principals. She specifically recognized outstanding student achievements in the SASE exams and national conferences, and acknowledged faculty contributions to research, service exchange programs, review classes, and student engagement in extracurricular activities. She concluded by saying, “Your journey has been one of growth, discoveries, and triumphs. You have not only met the challenges but exceeded expectations.”
The commencement speaker was MSU System President Atty. Basari D. Mapupuno, represented by University and Board of Regents Secretary Atty. Nur Elias P. Yusoph. The president’s message resonated deeply with the graduating class. He celebrated their transformation from learners to leaders, emphasizing their unique potential to create positive change. He positioned MSU’s community high schools as beacons of hope within their communities, urging graduates to leverage their skills and platforms—including social media—for advocacy and social justice, reminding them to balance ambition with service and to build bridges where others see barriers.
The president stated, “You are not just products of your time, you are makers of history. Be fearless but not careless, be ambitious but never forget the people you are meant to serve. Question the world, but also rebuild it with love. Take your TikToks and turn them into tools for advocacy. Take your voices and make them platforms for justice. Take your roots and let them give wings to your dreams.”
Mr. Jamal Baulo’s original compositions, “Thank You” and “Here I Am Today,” created a memorable and moving atmosphere. The graduation and completion songs connected deeply with the audience. The ceremony concluded with the traditional singing of the MSU Hymn.
The event served as a powerful testament to MSU’s commitment to providing transformative education and fostering a culture of excellence within its external units. It was a celebration not only of individual accomplishments but also of the collective strength and unity of the entire MSU system. The centralized ceremony promises to become a cherished tradition, symbolizing the shared journey and bright futures of MSU’s graduating students.
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