USM Starts Construction of New Engineering, IT Laboratory Classroom

The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) marked another milestone on June 16, 2025, with the ceremonial kickoff of the construction of a new laboratory classroom for the College of Engineering and Information Technology (CEIT).

The planned laboratory classroom seeks to meet the rising need for hands-on, industry-relevant learning spaces for engineering and IT students. It is envisioned to become a dynamic venue for practical training, innovation, and collaborative learning.

USM President Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel, CEIT faculty members, staff, and student representatives were in attendance in the groundbreaking. The activity signifies the university’s ongoing commitment to infrastructure growth and academic excellence.

Also, key local officials of the Cotabato Province joined the event to show their full support, including 3rd District Representative Cong. Samantha Santos, Cotabato Province Vice Governor Ella Taray, Board Member Ivy Dalumpines, Board Member Saldivar, and Kabacan Mayor Evangeline Guzman.

In their remarks, the guests expressed strong support for the project and commended USM for its unwavering commitment to quality education and student development. They underscored the importance of investing in the youth as key contributors to the region’s future.

“Narito kami hindi lamang bilang mga opisyal kundi bilang mga katuwang sa paghubog ng kinabukasan ng kabataan,” said Cotabato Vice Governor Elect Ella Taray.

“Ang kinabukasan ng rehiyon ay nakasalalay sa mga kabataang tulad ninyo. Kaya saludo kami sa USM sa patuloy nitong pagtataguyod ng mga proyektong nagbibigay halaga sa edukasyong teknikal at sa pagbibigay ng tamang pasilidad para sa mga estudyante.” She added.

Echoing this message, 3rd District Representative Samantha Santos emphasized the long-term impact of such initiatives: “Ang mga proyektong tulad nito ay may direktang epekto sa paghubog ng mga eksperto at makabagong kabataan. Sa pamamagitan ng makabagong pasilidad, mas nabibigyan ng tunay na oportunidad ang kabataan upang magtagumpay. Asahan ninyo ang patuloy na suporta ng aming opisina sa ganitong mga inisyatiba. We hope this will inspire students to excel, to prove to the world, and to the Philippines, that you are proud products of USM. Use what you’ve learned to contribute not only to your school, but to your community. Keep the legacy alive, and never stop dreaming or pursuing your goals.” She ended.

Also Mayor Guzman expressed her support.
“Ang pag-unlad ng USM ay pag-unlad ng buong Kabacan. Kapag ang mga estudyante ay may maayos na lugar para matuto, mas malayo ang mararating nila. At dito, nagsisimula ang pagbabago.” The Mayor said.

USM President Dr. Jonald Pimentel, in turn, thanked the local officials for their support and emphasized the power of partnerships between government and the academic sector in achieving meaningful development.

The construction of the CEIT laboratory classroom is expected to be completed in the coming months and will play a crucial role in shaping skilled, innovative, and future-ready engineers and IT professionals.