Lawmakers seek conversion of Upi Agricultural School to Bangsamoro Tribal University

COTABATO CITY — To improve higher education opportunities for indigenous peoples, Bangsamoro lawmakers are pushing the conversion of Upi Agricultural School (UAS) in Upi, Maguindanao del Norte, into the Bangsamoro Tribal University (BTU).

The proposal is being pushed by BTA Parliament Bill No. 274, with legislators Ramon A. Piang Sr., Mohagher M. Iqbal, Eddie M. Alih, Atty. Suharto M. Ambolodto, Atty. Lanang T. Ali, Jr., Mohammad Kellie U. Antao, Tawakal B. Midtimbang, Dr. Hashemi N. Dilangalen and Suharto S. Esmael as primary authors.
 
The proposed conversion aims to elevate the institution to function as an instructional facility, research extension center, and tertiary and secondary school.
 
MP Piang emphasized that the measure goes beyond a mere change of name, seeking qualitative improvements in educational offerings and outcomes.
 
The Bangsamoro Organic Law mandates the creation of a tribal university system within the Bangsamoro government to address the higher educational needs of non-Moro indigenous peoples. 
The Parliament should pass a law that will recognize and support the indigenous peoples' educational system for integration into the Bangsamoro educational framework.
 
According to the Bangsamoro Education Code, the Tribal University System will integrate the language, culture, and traditional knowledge of indigenous peoples into the curriculum and extracurricular activities.
 
The envisioned BTU will offer advanced studies, higher professional and technical instructions, training, and basic education for special purposes. The Board of Trustees, chaired by the Minister of the Ministry of Basic Higher and Technical Education, will govern the university.
 
The proposed measure also outlines administration, exercise of powers, socialized tuition schemes, maintenance of facilities, and academic advancement. The BTU aims to provide progressive leadership in education, arts, agriculture, environmental and technological development, and related sciences.
 
The curriculum will incorporate studies on the culture of the indigenous peoples in the Bangsamoro region, offering various courses to meet the needs of Maguindanao del Norte and the broader Bangsamoro region.
 
If passed, the necessary funding for the BTU will be included in the annual General Appropriations Act of Bangsamoro.
 
Said bill is co-authored by MPs Abdulwahab M. Pak, Suwaib L. Oranon, Ibrahim D. Ali, Froilyn T. Mendoza, Hatimil E. Hassan, Bai Maleiha B. Candao, Jaafar Apollo Mikhail L. Matalam, Michael E. Midtimbang, Susana S. Anayatin, Tarhata M. Maglangit, Denmartin A. Kahalan, Diamila D. Ramos, Abdullah E. Gayak, Ali Montaha D. Babao, Said M. Shiek, Mudjib C. Abu, and Ali B. Solaiman. (LTAIS- Public Information, Publication, and Media Relations Division)