Nueva Vizcaya State University (NVSU) announced plans to build a third campus in Belance, Dupax del Norte during the “Kapihan sa NVSU” on March 16, 2026, as part of its 22nd Charter Anniversary celebration at NVSU Mini Theatre in Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya. The project aims to serve young residents who travel long distances for higher education.
University officials are working closely with the Registrar and Director of Testing to advance the project, which initially considered offering agriculture and forestry programs given the area’s agricultural landscape. However, a review of student enrollment profiles revealed that most Belance and nearby residents prefer Hotel and Restaurant Management, and this shift in focus is one that reflects a desire for career opportunities outside farming.
Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Elma P. Apostol said, “Perhaps because they are already in an agricultural area, they want to shift focus and work in hotels or restaurants, as it seems they want a paradigm shift.” “To finalize course offerings, the Director of Testing will visit the area soon, while registrars will conduct surveys at local schools this week to gauge student interests,” she explained.
NVSU President Dr. Wilfredo A. Dumale, Jr. said that the project has already secured the support of the district’s Congressman, who is awaiting the formal proposal to file corresponding legislation in Congress. Once documents are complete, the measure will undergo committee reviews, stakeholder consultations, and plenary discussions before becoming law.
The new campus will spare students from traveling to Bayombong or Bambang for college, making higher education more accessible. University management emphasizes that funding will be needed for infrastructure, faculty hiring, and program facilities.
“More young Vizcayanos will be given the opportunity to study in college because if the school is near their homes, it will be easier for them to attend,” Dr. Dumale, Jr. added. “Our dream is to provide more opportunities to our children by making academic programs accessible to them, and we are grateful for the full support of our political leaders.”
The Governor expresses sincere appreciation for the plan presented by the university. In a message addressing the university and the community, Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito stated: “The services we deliver should not be what we want, but what our constituents want. What they want is what they need, and what they need is what’s good for them. This should be our mindset. NVSU’s plan perfectly embodies this principle, just as our programs like “Kalsada ti Kabanbantayan” and “WiFi ti Umili” do, as they are rooted in addressing the real needs of our students and people, and I am fully supportive of this collaborative effort. We trust that NVSU will continue to be a strong partner in uplifting the lives of our youth and building a better future for our province.” /mccd
[This article was first created on Facebook – Provincial Government of Nueva Vizcaya. For PGNV updates, visit: https://www.facebook.com/vizcayareporter]