Nasrimah R. Sampaco-Fayez
Mindanao State University (MSU) significantly enhanced its global presence and secured a crucial academic partnership with the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) at the 4th International Conference on Governance and Development (ICGD4) in Bangkok, Thailand. The conference, held from July 30 to August 2, 2025, was organized by the UPLB College of Public Affairs and Development in partnership with the Kasetsart University School of Integrated Science, with the theme “Championing Global Citizenship and Empowering Communities.” The conference’s main objective was to underscore the critical role of governance, global citizenship, and community empowerment, serving as a platform to exchange ideas, share best practices, and foster partnerships among prominent leaders and experts in the field of development. The conference’s three sub-themes included lifelong learning for sustainable development, innovative institutions for community development, and communities of practice for global development. MSU’s participation involved strategic engagement, culminating in a landmark agreement.
The official opening ceremony was held on July 31, 2025. MSU System President Atty. Paisalin P.D. Tago, CPA delivered an inspirational message during the ICGD4 welcome dinner, highlighting the critical role of international collaboration in addressing global challenges and fostering sustainable development. This showcased MSU’s commitment to these goals.
Throughout the conference, MSU delegates, led by President Tago, actively participated in sessions, networked, shared expertise, and learned from leading experts. This proactive engagement facilitated valuable connections and laid the groundwork for future collaborations.
MSU delegates included Dr. Oding L. Ma-amor (MSU System Assistant Vice President for Planning and Development), Prof. Melencio C. Jalova Jr. (Director of University Extension Services Center), Prof. Soraida B. Ali (former Dean of the College of Public Affairs), and Dr. Christine Joy S. Octobre (former Chairperson of the Department of Public Administration), who served as panel presenters. Dr. Minerva Samina M. Naga (Chairperson of the MSU Transition Committee) also chaired a panel session. Dr. Indihra B. Dimaporo-Tawantawan (Superintendent of MSU Sultan Naga Dimaporo, Lanao del Norte) also attended.
A key highlight was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between MSU (represented by President Tago) and UPLB (represented by Chancellor Dr. Jose V. Camacho Jr.). Witnessed by distinguished officials from both institutions, this formalized a significant academic partnership. The MOU establishes a framework for collaborative activities, including faculty and researcher exchanges, student exchange programs, joint research projects, and shared academic resources. This MOU built upon a benchmarking visit to UPLB from March 12–13, 2025, led by Dr. Fema M. Abamo (MSU Vice Chancellor for Research, Extension, and Development), which included tours of key UPLB facilities (UPLB-IFST, UPLB Interdisciplinary Studies Center for INREM, BIOTECH, and the Office of the Chancellor).
The MSU-UPLB MOU signing demonstrates MSU’s commitment to international collaboration and strategic partnerships advancing academic excellence and national development. President Tago’s participation and the MOU signing represent significant achievements for MSU, paving the way for future collaborations.
MSU delegates’ engagement extended beyond the conference, including a campus tour of Kasetsart University. This visit facilitated a deeper understanding of Kasetsart University’s strengths and potential areas for future collaboration with MSU, enriching the overall experience and laying the groundwork for potential partnerships beyond the UPLB MOU.
Photos are from the Facebook Pages of the University Extension Services Center – MSU Main Campus and the Department of Public Administration – MSU – College of Public Affairs
