CAPSU BURIAS CONDUCTS MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS AND STRESS  MANAGEMENT; STUDENT-LEADERS TAKE OATHS OF OFFICE: A HEALTHY MIND, A HEALTHY SCHOOL 

 by Elrose Saballero 

    In pursuit to officially instate the newly elected or appointed student leaders of various organizations and to assist the students in managing and fostering their mental well-being, the Supreme Student Council of CapSU Burias and Future Leaders of the Philippines Burias Chapter, in collaboration with the Office of Student Affairs and Services, the Guidance and Counselling Office, and Medical and Dental Services, organized a Symposium on Mental Health Awareness and Stress Management, along with an Oath-Taking Ceremony that took place on September 20 at the Campus Gymnasium.

    This event marks a vital step in fostering a supportive and inclusive campus environment. As Dr. Rodyard B. Madiclum, the Campus Administrator, stood for his opening remarks, he informed the student leaders, "You have a unique opportunity to influence others. Your words, your actions, and your kindness have a ripple effect. You have the power to set the tone, to create an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported.". He reminded them that self-care is essential in leadership, as the journey can be challenging. 

    "A leader sometimes takes bold actions for the good of their team's ambition. True leadership is about enduring hardship and staying the course, even though the fire. Therefore, be the leader the world needs for your thrice, your mental well-being. Because when you lead with a healthy mind and a healthy, full passion, transform yourself. So, lead with purpose, lead with balance, and lead with a legacy that lasts," he additionally asserted.

    Moreover, Dr. Efren F. Linan, the Fourth President of the Capiz State University, graced us with his first appearance on the campus and delivered his inspirational message. And during his lecture, he shared values that a leader should instill, and that's PEACE—P for probity, E for efficiency, A for accountability, C for collegiality, and E for equity. 

    Following the induction of officers, Ms. Caressa Lyn Siglos, the Designated Guidance Counselor of Roxas City Main Campus, took the stage as the resource speaker, discussing mental awareness and stress management. She provided knowledge on the different levels of stress and suicide, along with effective responses, thereby amplifying understanding of mental health well-being among attendees. 

    Thereafter, Dr. Archile C. Abogadie concluded the program with the remarks stating, "My dear students, be brave. Do yourself and do your best because there is nothing impossible and will not look back if you do your thing for your benefit, not only you, but your entire two ministries and constituents.”

 CAF BURIAS LAUNCHES INTERNATIONAL WEBINAR  SERIES 

by: Jeanelle O. Ledesma

    In a significant stride towards bridging academia and global sustainable agricultural practices, the College of Agriculture & Forestry - CAPSU Burias, in collaboration with esteemed institutions such as Hiroshima University and Hasanuddin University, launched the inaugural segment of its International Webinar Series on September 4 and 11, 2024. Focused on the "Animal Science Research and Sustainability Track," the event drew attention to pivotal trends in animal production and its vital role in global food security.

    The recent International Webinar Series brought together an impressive panel of six distinguished speakers, each an expert in their respective fields. Under the guidance of hosts Dr. Christine F. Quenga and Dr. John King N. Layos, participants were offered a robust platform to engage in discussions and inquiries regarding the pressing challenges and innovative solutions within sustainable agricultural practices.

    Kicking off the series on September 4, Dr. Johanna Aldersey, a postdoctoral fellow at the USDA Agricultural Research Service, captivated the audience with her insights on the application of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) in disease and vaccine research about channel catfish. Her work highlights the intersection of technology and animal health, showcasing how innovative research is paving the way for more resilient agricultural practices.

    Following her, Dr. Fika Yuliza Purba from Hasanuddin University shared her expertise on sustainable food animal production through enhanced reproductive management practices, emphasizing the integral role of responsible breeding in food security. Dr. Joy B. Banayo, the head of the Animal Biotechnology Laboratory at the University of the Philippines Los Baños, further complemented these discussions by presenting her work on the development of PCR testing for mislabeling analysis in the Philippine meat industry, addressing the critical concern of food integrity.

    The second segment of the series on September 11 continued to illuminate the complexities of sustainable agriculture, featuring Dr. Lawrence M. Liao, who tackled the implications of Japan’s declining population on its agricultural landscape. Dr. Keiven Mark A. Ampode from South Korea discussed the potential of smart farming technologies to optimize animal production, underscoring the significance of innovation in achieving sustainability. Meanwhile, Dr. R-Jun Frederick A. Gaspe brought attention to climate challenges in agriculture, presenting research on mitigating enteric methane emissions from dairy cows—a crucial step in addressing greenhouse gas emissions in the livestock sector.

    The webinar not only provided an educational experience but also fostered significant networking opportunities, allowing participants to connect, collaborate, and share insights that can further drive the agenda for sustainable agricultural practices.

    The success of this international webinar series reflects a growing recognition of the urgent need for sustainable agricultural practices to ensure food security worldwide. As CAPSU Burias and its partners continue to push the envelope on research, education, and collaboration, the event acts as a reminder of the critical role higher education institutions play in the broader ASEAN community. As articulated by the organizing committee, the initiative stands as a beacon of cooperation that aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), underscoring the importance of collective action in nurturing a food-secure future for all.