The Mindanao State University (MSU) Main Campus participated in the International Academic Benchmarking and International Engagement activity at Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP) in Semarang, Indonesia, from January 18 to 24, 2026. The delegation was led by MSU System President, Atty. Paisalin P. D. Tago, CPA, and included the Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Minerva-Saminah M. Naga; the Vice Chancellor for Research, Extension and Development, Dr. Annie Mae C. Berowa; the Vice Chancellor for Planning and Development, Dr. Oding L. Maamor; and the Deans of various colleges of MSU Main Campus.
The engagement aimed to benchmark MSU’s academic programs, quality assurance mechanisms, and research initiatives against international best practices. It also sought to strengthen institutional dialogue and knowledge exchange, and to explore potential collaborations in instruction, research, and extension, including faculty and student mobility through possible Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) and Memoranda of Agreement (MOA), in line with MSU’s commitment to global competitiveness and academic excellence.
The activity formally opened with a courtesy meeting on the first day, attended by UNDIP’s Vice Rector for Research, Innovation, Collaboration, and Public Communication, Dr. Wijayanto; Deputy Director of Partnerships and Global Connectivity, Prof. Pulung Widhi Hari Hananto; Director for Reputation, Partnership, and Global Connectivity, Prof. Hadiyanto; Deans of the Faculties, and other university officials. UNDIP representatives presented the university’s background and highlighted strategic initiatives that have positioned the institution as a top-ranked public research university not only in Indonesia, but also in Asia and in the world.
Meaningful discussions continued on the second day, focusing on key areas that further reinforce UNDIP’s global standing: quality assurance, research, and community engagement. The day also included campus tours and visits to faculty clusters, research units, and quality assurance offices. These engagements provided valuable exposure to UNDIP’s systems and practices, inspiring the delegation to adapt and model these best practices as MSU strengthens its position toward world-class university status.
The activity concluded with mutual commitments between UNDIP and MSU to implement undergraduate student exchange programs within the year, pursue faculty exchange initiatives, conduct research mentoring sessions for faculty members, and strengthen collaboration in research and community services.
The engagement reflects MSU’s commitment to global competitiveness and academic excellence, guided by the transformative and globally-oriented leadership of President Tago, and his vision of an Inklusibong Pamantasan (Inclusive University). The MSU delegation likewise conveys its sincere appreciation to Universitas Diponegoro for its warm hospitality, as both institutions promote a shared vision of international cooperation and academic advancement.
