DAVAO CITY – Six years since being at the helm of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, interim Chief Minister Ahod Balawag Ebrahim reiterated that education remains as among the keys in solving peace and sustaining development in the region.
BARMM officials during the groundbreaking ceremony of the Bangsamoro Science High School in Cotabato City on Jan. 21. (BARMM-MOST)
Ebrahim issued the statement during the groundbreaking ceremony for the establishment of a Bangsamoro Science High School at Bangsamoro Government Center in Cotabato City on Jan. 21 that coincided with the sixth founding anniversary of the establishment of BARMM.
“We believe that education is the key to solving peace and sustaining growth and development in the region, and we are working tirelessly to rebuild and strengthen our education system,” Ebrahim said.
The project, he added, will not only cultivate competent scientists and technologists but also a morally and conscientious Bangsamoro youth who are dedicated in building an empowered, cohesive, and progressive Bangsamoro.
“It is our mission to ensure that our students not only meet but exceed the demands of the fields of science and technology – sectors that are indispensable today and much needed in our autonomous region,” said Ebrahim.
Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education chief Mohagher Iqbal emphasized the importance of advancing science education within an Islamic framework.
The project is aligned with the Bangsamoro government’s vision of empowering youth with knowledge and moral guidance, Iqbal said. “This project is a testament to the BARMM's dedication and mission to improving the quality of education and creating a brighter future for the region's youth.”
The establishment of the Bangsamoro Science High School funded under Special Development Fund (SDF) was implemented after the enactment of the Bangsamoro Autonomy Act No. 40, also known as the Bangsamoro Science High School System Act of 2023.
It aims to establish a quality science education system in the Bangsamoro region as well as free scholarship programs.
The project includes academic buildings, a cultural center, advanced science and technology, dormitory, multi-purpose facilities, a swimming pool, football and track and field, and badminton and volleyball courts.
In a separate statement, Iqbal emphasized that education remains among the Bangsamoro government’s highest priorities, which is a cornerstone of peace and progress.
“Investing in our schools, teachers, and learners ensures no Bangsamoro child is left behind. Education is a right and a means of empowering our youth and equipping them with the tools to build a prosperous and peaceful future.“
Ministry of Science and Technology Minister Engr. Aida Silongan said that the project will provide equal opportunities for Bangsamoro youth to pursue their educational aspirations.
“Our goal is to establish an institution that can compete with, and even exceed, the standards of prestigious science high schools beyond BARMM and elevates our students' passion for science and technology,” she said in a statement.
While the ceremonial groundbreaking was held in Cotabato City, the campus will be built in Sitio Landasan, Sarmiento, Parang, Maguindanao del Norte, the MOST said.