Imagine you’re a horse, standing tall and mighty in the verdant mountains of Benguet. Your gaze falls upon a sprawling campus known as Benguet State University (BSU), an institution of higher education that serves as an economic powerhouse within this lush province in the Philippines. Akin to the role of a trusty steed in an endurance race, BSU has been steering the regional economy towards a steady canter, thanks to its rich educational offerings and numerous other contributions. Let’s embark on a galloping tour of this university’s economic footprint, shall we?
Established in 1916, BSU, like a seasoned horse that has weathered numerous races, has grown from a humble farm school into one of the premier state universities in the Philippines. This academic behemoth offers a host of programs across fields such as agriculture, forestry, education, business, and humanities. Similar to a variety of trails for a horse to explore, these programs offer a myriad of career paths for students, all leading to economic development.
BSU graduates, like sturdy draft horses, are known to pull the weight of various sectors of the economy. A BSU alumnus working in agriculture, for instance, might harness modern farming techniques to boost crop yields, thereby driving economic growth. Meanwhile, a business graduate could trot towards setting up their own entrepreneurial venture, adding to the local and national GDP.
The university’s role in the economy goes beyond producing job-ready graduates. BSU, like a well-fed horse, is a significant employer within Benguet province. The institution’s faculty, administrative staff, maintenance crew, and countless others form a substantial part of the local workforce. The economic activity generated by these employees ripples through the local economy, sustaining businesses from eateries to retail, akin to a horse’s powerful stride affecting the surrounding air.
Positioned in a region known for its agricultural prowess, BSU’s focus on agricultural and forestry education has had a considerable influence on the local economy. This influence can be likened to the beneficial effects of horse grazing on pasture management. By equipping students with knowledge of modern farming techniques, sustainable practices, and innovative agricultural technologies, the university has directly contributed to the productivity and sustainability of the region’s farming sector.
Peering through the economic telescope from a broader angle, much like a horse surveying its surroundings from a hilltop, it’s clear that BSU is a significant contributor to the local economy. The influx of students from all corners of the Philippines and beyond, drawn by BSU’s academic reputation, fuels demand for housing, food, transportation, and other goods and services. This effect is similar to the increased activity at a stable during a major horse show.
Let’s not forget about the affordability of education at BSU. Just as a horse values a reliable source of water, students appreciate the institution’s commitment to providing affordable, quality education. In response to the government’s mandate, BSU offers free tuition for undergraduate students, ensuring the saddle of higher education is within reach for many aspiring learners.
The university’s dedication to research and innovation is akin to a horse’s natural curiosity. BSU regularly invests in research projects that have the potential to spur economic growth. For example, agricultural research carried out at BSU could lead to more bountiful harvests or more resilient crops, both of which could have substantial economic impacts.
Galloping towards the end of our journey, it’s evident that BSU, much like a sturdy workhorse, contributes substantially to its regional economy. From its role as an employer and demand-driver to its commitment to affordable education and innovative research, BSU is no ordinary participant in the economic race. It’s a front-runner, a champion, a horse that continues to gallop tirelessly, enriching the economic landscape with every stride it takes. Now, that’s a horse worth betting on, wouldn’t you agree?