Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
Central Mindanao University (CMU) took part in the 36th Southeast Asian University Consortium (UC) for Graduate Education in Agriculture and Natural Resources Executive Board Meeting, held in Taipei, Taiwan on October 30-31, 2023.
The delegation from CMU was led by Dr. Jose S. Valmorida, Vice President for Academic Affairs, and Dr. Judith D. Intong, College of Agriculture Dean, serving as Executive Officer and Coordinator, respectively.
The meeting, hosted by National Taiwan University (NTU), brought together 13 universities from Southeast Asia. Among the participating institutions were Institut Pertanian Bogor (IPB), Universitas of Gadjah Mada (UGM), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Kasetsart University (KU), University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), Universitas Brawijaya UB), Tokyo University of Agriculture (NODAI), National Taiwan University (NTU), Maejo University (MU), University of British Columbia (UBC), Central Luzon State University (CLSU), Visayas State University (VSU), and Central Mindanao University (CMU).
Notably, CMU holds the distinction of being the youngest affiliate member of the consortium, showcasing the university’s growing presence on the international stage.
One of the highlights of the meeting was the action taken on the annual assessment of CMU, as an affiliate member. After a comprehensive report from all UC members, CMU received satisfactory ratings in its first year and will continue its affiliate member status for an additional two years.
Looking ahead, plans for UC activities from 2024 to 2026 were deliberated upon, with CMU vying to host the Faculty Forum in 2025. The meeting concluded with closing remarks from Dean Yu-Pin Lin, College of Bioresources of NTU, and a closing message by Dr. Glen Gregorio of SEARCA.
According to Dr. Valmorida, CMU’s membership in the Southeast Asian University Consortium is a testament to its commitment to globalizing education and research in agriculture and natural sciences.
“The consortium offers faculty and students grants for research, conferences/seminars, thesis, and mobility programs which are vital support for instruction and research undertakings of the University,” Dr. Valmorida affirmed.
Moreover, Dr. Judith S. Intong emphasized the significance of CMU’s UC membership, stating that it not only recognizes the University’s status in the academic community but also provides a valuable opportunity to carve a niche in agriculture and natural resource management through collaboration and partnership. She encouraged active participation from faculty and graduate students, highlighting that their involvement would facilitate regular membership in the consortium.
“As it spreads wings, CMU must make the University Consortium as an avenue to learn from and grow with the elite universities in Southeast Asia..the active participation of faculty and graduate students in its activities will facilitate our regular membership in the consortium,” Dr. Intong stressed.
Dr. Valmorida acknowledged the crucial support from the university administration, led by President Rolito G. Eballe, and to Dr. Judith D. Intong for her recommendations and leadership in representing CMU within the UC program. He also expressed appreciation to SEARCA for providing CMU with the invaluable opportunity to contribute and serve as an integral part of the consortium.
In essence, CMU’s active involvement in the UC reaffirms its dedication to fulfilling its mandate in fostering international collaboration and advancing excellence in agricultural education and research. [Iyren Dalipe-Neri]
Photos courtesy of Dr. Jose S. Valmorida
