A New Dawn in Education: University of Santo Tomas – GenSan
In the bustling city of General Santos, a remarkable transformation is underway as the University of Santo Tomas (UST), one of the Philippines’ most prestigious institutions, expands its reach to Mindanao. UST-GenSan stands as a beacon of hope for higher education enthusiasts in the region. This campus is not just another addition to UST’s impressive roster; it’s a testament to the university’s commitment to spreading knowledge far and wide. Spanning a vast 76.78-hectare land area in Brgy. Ligaya, General Santos City, UST-GenSan is poised to become an educational hub that will shape the future of countless students.
The University of Santo Tomas, founded in 1611, is the oldest existing university in Asia and one of the oldest in the world. With centuries of experience in providing quality education, UST has earned a sterling reputation for academic excellence and values-driven formation. Recognizing the need to extend its influence beyond the confines of Manila, UST took a giant leap by establishing its first-ever campus in VisMin, UST-GenSan.
Facilities
The sprawling 76.78-hectare land area that UST-GenSan occupies is not just a piece of real estate; it’s a canvas for a grand vision of educational transformation. The campus’s facilities are designed to facilitate holistic development, providing students with an environment conducive to both academic and personal growth.
- Chapel: UST-GenSan is more than just a place for academic pursuits; it’s a sanctuary for spiritual reflection and growth. The campus chapel serves as a place for students to find solace, strength, and a sense of community.
- Library: A treasure trove of knowledge, the library at UST-GenSan is a place where students can immerse themselves in books, research, and learning resources to enhance their academic journey.
- Clinic: Ensuring the well-being of its students is a top priority for UST-GenSan. The campus clinic provides essential healthcare services to cater to the medical needs of its vibrant student community.
- Org Rooms: Student organizations are the heart of campus life. UST-GenSan’s org rooms offer spaces for clubs and societies to meet, collaborate, and bring their ideas to life.
- Auditorium and Function Halls: The campus boasts state-of-the-art facilities for events, conferences, and gatherings. These spaces will be hubs for cultural enrichment and intellectual discourse.
- Sports Facilities: UST-GenSan recognizes the importance of physical fitness and sports in the holistic development of students. The football pitch and athletics oval provide students with opportunities to excel in sports.
- Main Building: Anticipation is high as the main building of UST-GenSan nears completion in 2023. This architectural marvel will be the heart of academic life, housing classrooms, laboratories, and administrative offices.
Location
Nestled in Brgy. Ligaya, General Santos City, UST-GenSan enjoys a strategic location that promotes accessibility and community engagement. The university’s presence is set to enrich the cultural and intellectual landscape of the region, fostering collaborations with local businesses, organizations, and communities.
Colleges
UST-GenSan will have the following academic units:
- School of Business and Accountancy
- School of Engineering and Technology
- School of Health Sciences
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
The establishment of the University of Santo Tomas – General Santos Campus marks an exciting chapter in the history of education in General Santos City. UST’s legacy of excellence, combined with its cutting-edge facilities and a commitment to holistic development, will undoubtedly pave the way for the success of its students. As the main building nears completion in 2023, the campus is poised to become a shining star in the Philippines’ academic firmament, offering hope, opportunity, and a brighter future for the region’s youth. UST-GenSan is not just a construction project; it’s a beacon of knowledge and a testament to the power of education to transform lives.
