New Wave of Leadership: MSU-IIT Student Leaders Usher Vision in Oath-Taking Ceremony

 

by Adam Vincent Perez

Student leaders from the Kataastaasang Sanggunian ng mga Mag-aaral (KASAMA) formally marked the turnover of responsibilities and took the oath of office, along with the Executive Councils (EC) of the seven colleges of Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), on September 25, 2024, at the Institute Mini Theatre.

Welcoming fellow student leaders, Xander Cage Paman, the new Vice-President of KASAMA, gave the rationale of the importance of these student bodies which will represent the interests, voice the concerns, and advocate the right of every student.

Former KASAMA President, Chester Laurie Tagacay, delivered his turnover speech, sharing a glimpse of the previous administration’s triumphs and challenges as well as provide valuable insights for the newly elected student leaders. 

“Always remember to enjoy every moment of this journey: Always serve with a heart, collaboration and communication is important, and accept constructive criticisms”, he said.

The momentous passing of the gavel between the former KASAMA President Chester Laurie Tagacay and the new President Arjie Castillon then followed suit, which symbolized the transition of authority and leadership in KASAMA.

After the parade of dignitaries and a short introduction of the new KASAMA and EC officers, the conduct of the oath of office then commenced before the university chancellor himself, signifying the official inauguration of MSU-IIT student leaders.

Chancellor Alizedney Ditucalan congratulated the victors of the last elections and delivered a message, drawing inspiration from his time as a former student leader who faced tribulations. He then imparted how resilience, as a trademark of every student leader, helped him overcome challenges even up to his calling as the University Chancellor.

Concluding the ceremony, the new KASAMA President, Arjie Castillon, delivered his remarks centered on his aspirations for a more productive and cohesive partnership between KASAMA and the Executive Councils of the seven colleges.

“We are student leaders and we share a very common goal and that is to serve the studentry”.

Meanwhile, Irah Shiene Guiang, CASS EC Governor, expressed her enthusiasm in finally taking the oath not just to formalize the start of their administration, but also to meet other student leaders in the University.

She also extended her message to her fellow arachnids, saying: “We will strive for a proactive administration which goes back to the core of the party which is student support, empowerment, progress, and puts the students’ needs first.”