The 2023 Benguet State University (BSU) Student Research Congress, held at the Research and Extension Building in BSU, La Trinidad, Benguet, was deemed success as it highlighted excellent researches in different areas.
The event was held on June 22-23, 2023, with a total of 92 research entries from various colleges of BSU which showcased outstanding undergraduate and advanced research papers.
Among them, 25 best research papers were carefully selected for recognition. The event enlisted the expertise of 15 evaluators in various fields.
Dr. Carlito P. Laurean, former vice president for research and extension and pioneer of BSU student research congress, highlighted the history and transformative opportunities the congress has provided for researchers across colleges.
He expressed his joy with the increasing number of research initiatives since 2016, attributing it to the constructive criticism from different colleges and the inspiring drive exhibited by students.
“The inspiration of this was only conflated into reality in 2016, doon nagsimulang dumami na ang mga researches, and I was very happy for that. ‘Yung criticism from different colleges and ‘yung inspiration from students was translated into realities,” he said.
Participants shares experience
Samuel L. Duyan, an adviser of participating students, shared how he witnessed the student’s hard work and due diligence in the process of making their research papers. He also mentioned that one of the challenges of the students in line with the presentation was the student’s hesitance to present their papers in front of the evaluators. However, with his aim to train the students to become better researchers, he was able to motivate the students.
As a result, two of his students’ papers were recognized as the best in their respective categories, securing their qualification for the upcoming regional research symposium to be organized by Cordillera Consortium for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (CORCAARRD).
Reflecting on her experience, Gemailyn A. Waking, the recipient of the 1st Best Paper award in the Social Non-Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources (SOCIAL NON-AANR) category, described the research congress as a valuable platform for students to present the fruits of their sleepless nights, hard work, and unwavering dedication.
“Actually, before the congress, I had doubt on my output because I had this question in mind if ‘karesearch- research ba siya?’ but because of the encouragements I have heard and the motivations, I grabbed the opportunity,” she stated.
In addition, Mariel L. Tay-eo, another participant, shared that even though their paper did not make it to the next level, she extended her support to the researchers who qualified. She expressed contentment with the achievement of presenting her paper at the university congress, as it provided an opportunity to meet esteemed professionals in the research field who offered valuable recommendations for improvement.
“Despite not winning [for] the regional research congress, reaching the university congress is already a win for me given the fact that we were able to meet respected personnel in the research fields, who shared recommendations for our improvement. Thus, given the privilege to present our paper to them yields a sense of fulfillment,” Tay-eo shared.
She further emphasized how engaging in research has honed her analytical thinking skills, which she intends to leverage in her future profession.
Impressions from the Experts
Dr. Kara S. Panolong, one of the research coordinators and a research adviser, praised the organizers for their efficient and accurate management, ensuring a seamless event. She emphasized the significance of such gatherings as a means of effectively communicating research findings to a wider audience.
This was supported by Dr. Susan Aguilan- Lopez, one of the evaluators of the research congress, she commended the Research and Extension Office for successfully organizing the event, which serves as evidence of Benguet State University’s commitment to its mission of enhancing research productivity and contributing to sustainable development.
Through the insights shared by the participants, it is evident that this congress not only provides students with an opportunity to present their research but also cultivates their confidence, skills, and future prospects. Hence, the 2023 BSU Student Research Congress was successful in being a platform to recognize exemplary student achievements and fostering a culture of research excellence. By Emily B. Paulino
