Aga Khan Museum and Natural Science Museum

The University Museum aims to foster a greater understanding and appreciation of the contribution of Muslim civilization has made to Mindanao’s heritage. Through education, research, and collaboration, the University Museum will foster dialogue and promote tolerance and mutual understanding among people.

The University Museum presents and collects artifacts and specimens from the historical significance of Muslim Civilization specifically in the areas of Mindanao as well as contemporary Muslim communities.

Mission

The University Museum is committed to provide an accessible historical place for learning and to solidify its vital role in the preservation, promotion, and celebration of the Meranaw cultural heritage and natural heritage and to meaningfully inspire illumination and kindle interest and wonderment for its collection.

Vision

To envision the museum as a culturally vibrant institution where the history and contributions of the People of the Lake are respected and appreciated and to be valued as the cultural heart of the community.

Our Core Values

Stewardship
We affirm responsible stewardship of the museum cultural holdings entrusted to our care and we are dedicated to preserving the Meranaw Cultural Heritage and Natural Heritage, because we believe that knowledge and appreciation of one’s culture and history matter.

Integrity
We are committed to professional and ethical standards. We value transparency and honesty to best represent our institution and our mission.

Respect
We are service-oriented, welcoming, and respectful towards our colleagues and visitors.

Inclusiveness
We offer an environment that inspires participation of all, and we respect different points of view.

Synergy
We collaborate and operate as one team for success and for the advancement of our mission.

Professional Excellence
We value responsiveness, collaboration, and continuous learning.

Aga Khan Museum

Established in 1963 under the enterprising vision of celebrated Meranaw scholar and historian, Dr. Mamitua D. Saber, the museum aims to preserve, display and interpret historical and cultural artifacts of the Meranaws and other ethnic groups. In 1969, the collection was moved to its permanent home, the Aga Khan Museum, funded by renowned philanthropist, His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV.

On July 31, 1989, the MSU Board of Regents approved Resolution No. 128, s. 1989, merging the Aga Khan Museum and Natural Science Museum thereby the University Museum was created.

Today the University Museum is the longest running and largest museum in Lanao del Sur and has become one of the most important landmarks in the province, known to local people and visiting tourists.

Natural Science Museum

The Natural Science Museum was established by Dr. Dioscoro S. Rabor, a celebrated Filipino Ornithologist who joined Mindanao State University on May 1, 1967, bringing with him his personal biological collection which served as the initial museum holding.

The Board of Regents approved the creation of the Natural Science Museum under the Resolution No. 577 during the 45^th Meeting on October 2, 1970 in Manila; three years after Rabor established the distinguished unit. NSM used to operate with an autonomous budget and is managed by a director, research assistants, field directors, clerk and utility worker. Later, additional items were given to the NSM with a curator and a driver.

NSM’s function includes conducting biological studies of both aquatic and terrestrial flora and fauna in the Philippines with emphasis on the MINSUPALA region and it also serves as laboratory in sciences.

On July 31, 1989, upon the recommendation of the then university president, the BOR approved the Resolution No. 128, s. 1989 for the consolidation of Aga Khan Museum and Natural Science Museum.

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