THE MINDANAO State University Board of Regents has approved a landmark student food security program from the MSU–Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), aiming to ensure that financial hardship will no longer force students to choose between meals and their education.

Approved during the board’s en banc meeting last week in Marawi City, the CommunIITy F.E.A.S.T. Food Program was proposed by MSU-IIT’s Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Services and endorsed by Chancellor Prof. Alizedney M. Ditucalan.

The initiative addresses food insecurity as a critical factor affecting academic performance, mental health, and student retention, while aligning with the university’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion policy and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Set to pilot in the first semester of Academic Year 2025–2026 before full implementation the following year, the program includes a free daily meal for selected students, access to low-cost drinking water, monthly community breakfasts, free coffee during major examinations, and referral services for additional student support.

Vice Chancellor for Student Services Prof. Rohane Derogongan said the program will be monitored closely to ensure sustainability and effectiveness.