By Christian Allister Tubadeza
BANGUED, Abra –Many opportunities await both students and teachers of the Abra State Institute of Sciences and Technology (ASIST) with Republic Act 11574 signed by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte(PRDD) converting it into a state university of the province to be known as the University of Abra (UA).
The enactment of the law was made possible through the initiative of Abra District Representative of Joseph Sto. Niño “JB” Bernos. He authored House Bill 7030 which seeks the conversion of ASIST into a state university way back 2019. On September 2020, the bill was approved by the Lower House and was approved by the Senate on May 2021. On July 23, 2021, RA 11574 or the University of Abra Law was signed by PRDD.
ASIST has its main campus in Lagangilang, and other campus in the capital town of Bangued. Soon to open is ASIST La Paz.
“The conversion of ASIST into the University of Abra will open up a number of opportunities for the benefit of the students and the entire province of Abra,” said Bernos who has long desired for the province to have its own state university.
The conversion of ASIST into a state university will also greatly improve the quality of teaching and the research output it produces for the predominantly agricultural communities of Abra, he added.
“With your utmost support, we will see through the passage of this Bill. This success is a victory for the people of Abra, especially the youth, who wish for quality and accessible college education in the province,” the congressman stated in his official facebook page post.
Under the law, the conversion of ASIST to UA shall become effective only upon substantial compliance with the requirements for the grant of university status based on CHED Memo Order No. 46 series of 2012. Philippine Information Agency
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