Melvira, 23, is about to complete her Bachelor’s in Agriculture with a major in Horticulture at Benguet State University (BSU).

In her almost four years there, the programs offered have been very helpful to students.

But with the new president at the helm of one of the largest universities in Northern Luzon, he has a goal to achieve.

“It doesn’t really need changes, just improvements. Maybe more programs like scholarships,” said Melvira Litusken, a student.

After the four-year term of Dr. Felipe Salaing Comila as president, the new president, Dr. Kenneth Alip Laruang, a professor at the College of Forestry, will take over.

He is the 8th president of the university based on Board Resolution No. 57, Series of 2024.

Upon his assumption on November 26, one of his focuses will be.

“For the past years, we have been producing graduates, but to improve the economy of the region, we are an agricultural community. Considering the environment of the Cordillera, which is very susceptible to landslides, another program will be data analytics,” said Dr. Kenneth Alip Laruan, President of the BSU.

He also wants to expand research programs that will better equip students to adapt to changing times.

“As an academic institution, we are already a centennial institution, and we are looking to offer MS and Ph.D. programs by research. It’s time to have these programs,” he added.

The turnover ceremony will take place on November 25, and Dr. Laruang’s term will begin on November 26.

His term will last until November 25, 2028.

His mandate is to make BSU the leading university in technology, research, and environmental protection in Northern Luzon by 2032.

**VANESSA BUGTONG