The KSU family gathered with joy as they witnessed the turnover ceremony of the newly elected university president on October 7, 2024. It was attended by the university officials, faculty, staff and stakeholders.
In his opening remarks, Chief Administrative Officer Dr. Romualdo U. Wacas honored the exemplary leadership of outgoing President Dr. Eduardo T. Bagtang. For 16 years, Dr. Bagtang has steered KSU to unprecedented heights, leaving behind a legacy of service, growth, and academic excellence. As the institution reflects on his remarkable contributions, it also looks forward to the exciting new era under the leadership of incoming President Dr. Joy Grace P. Doctor.
Before the turnover ceremony, Dr. Perfelia R. Buen, the University and Board Secretary read before the audience the Board resolution on the appointment of the 6th elected president.
In his turnover speech, Dr. Eduardo T. Bagtang expressed deep gratitude to the aspirants who supported the transition to the newly appointed president, Dr. Joy Grace P. Doctor. As he bid farewell, Dr. Bagtang highlighted the strong foundation he leaves behind: 166 dedicated administrative personnel, 223 committed faculty members, numerous research and extension projects, and a budget of P161,642,419 for 2024, with a higher allocation anticipated for 2025. He confidently entrusts the assets, financial reports, and assured debt settlements for ongoing infrastructure projects to Dr. Doctor.
Dr. Bagtang calls on his successor to lead the only state university in Kalinga with a vision that uplifts the Kalinga people and youth through education, striving for recognition and prominence in the academic world.
In her heartfelt acceptance speech, newly appointed Kalinga State University President Dr. Joy Grace P. Doctor expressed profound gratitude and humility. Acknowledging the trust placed in her by faculty, staff, students, and stakeholders, Dr. Doctor vowed to lead with dedication, transparency, and an openness to collaboration. She emphasized her deep respect for the university’s legacy, while setting a forward-looking vision that positions KSU as both a vital community institution and a player on the global stage.
Dr. Doctor promised to invest in faculty development and ensure students are equipped to excel not just academically but as well-rounded individuals ready to make a lasting impact. She recognized the challenges brought by the global pandemic but highlighted the resilience of KSU, stressing innovation and internationalization as key priorities. Throughout her message, Dr. Doctor emphasized her commitment to inclusive leadership, listening to the community’s ideas, concerns, and aspirations for a brighter future for KSU.
In his message of support, Congressman Allen Jesse Mangaoang emphasized the importance of transitions as moments of renewal and reinvigoration. He expressed confidence in Dr. Doctor's ability to continue KSU’s legacy of excellence while charting new paths for the institution’s future. Acknowledging the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead, Congressman Mangaoang called for a spirit of collaboration, urging the KSU community to stand united in supporting the new administration. Together, he believes, they can build on past successes and embrace future possibilities, always aspiring for excellence to benefit both students and the province.
Governor James Edduba reaffirmed his strong partnership with Kalinga State University, particularly in the fields of health and agriculture. He highlighted the ongoing efforts to upgrade the Kalinga Provincial Hospital to a DOH-maintained facility, a critical step toward supporting the university's future College of Medicine. Governor Edduba also emphasized their collaborative work in advancing agricultural initiatives for the benefit of the province.
In congratulating Dr. Joy Grace P. Doctor on her appointment as KSU President, Governor Edduba expressed confidence in her leadership, citing her strong professional background. He conveyed his optimism that the fruitful partnership between the provincial government and the university will continue to thrive, ensuring mutual progress and success.
In his message, City Mayor Darwin Estranero expressed his strong commitment to sustaining and enhancing the partnership between the city government and KSU. He emphasized the city's readiness to collaborate with the university on developmental projects that contribute to the growth and progress of both the institution and the broader community. His message reflected confidence in continued cooperation that will further elevate the region’s educational and developmental goals.
In his address, CHED Regional Director Hon. Demetrio P. Anduyan Jr. paid tribute to former Kalinga State University President Dr. Eduardo T. Bagtang, acknowledging his wisdom, resilience, and dedication to the advancement of higher education. Dr. Bagtang's tenure, according to Director Anduyan, laid strong foundations not only for KSU but also for the development of Kalinga and the CAR. He hailed Dr. Bagtang’s leadership as one marked by numerous accomplishments, likening his departure to graduating with the highest honors.
Director Anduyan extended his congratulations to the newly elected KSU President, Dr. Joy Grace P. Doctor, urging her to build on Dr. Bagtang's legacy and make KSU an even better institution. He encouraged Dr. Doctor to lead with joy, grace, and evidence-based decision-making, ensuring KSU’s continued rise to prominence both regionally and globally. Anduyan closed with a reminder that true leadership requires making difficult but necessary decisions and extended his deep respect to Dr. Bagtang, saluting his invaluable contributions.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Lope Buen, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Development, emphasized the importance of adhering to policies, standards, and guidelines at Kalinga State University. He reminded the administration, faculty, students, and stakeholders that leadership transitions are an integral part of institutional governance. Dr. Eduardo T. Bagtang, knowing that his tenure would soon end, took proactive steps to ensure a smooth transition by initiating the search for a new president. This foresight, according to Dr. Buen, has led to the seamless handover of leadership, culminating in the ceremony to welcome the newly elected president.
