(from left to right) Rey John O. Cortez, Editor, Extension Services Office, Dr. Vrenelie II Decal-Flores, Associate Professor IV, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Rahima A. Cabunto, Education Program Specialist, Research Development Office, Dr. Melwin G. Mende, Director of the Quality Assurance and Enhancement Office, Dr. Adorico M. Aya-ay, Dean of the College of Health Sciences, Engr. Michael G. Calamba, Dean of the College of Engineering and Architecture, Kareen Michelle Q. Limpot, Vice President, Human Resources and Administrative Services, and Leopoldo Jr. D. Aquino, Director, Office for Corporate Partnerships/Alumni Affairs Office
On March 28, 2025, the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) conducted a benchmarking session at Mapúa Malayan Colleges Mindanao (Mapúa MCM) to gain valuable insights into Outcomes-Based Education (OBE) and syllabus design. The visit provided an opportunity for USM personnel to explore the practical application of OBE in teaching and learning, with a focus on Engineering and Allied Health Sciences programs.
Mapúa MCM academic leaders, including Dr. Melwin G. Mende, Director of the Quality Assurance and Enhancement Office; Dr. Adorico M. Aya-ay, Dean of the College of Health Sciences; and Engr. Michael G. Calamba, Dean of the College of Engineering and Architecture, shared valuable insights and best practices in the implementation of Outcomes-Based Education (OBE). Their presentations showcased innovative strategies in curriculum development, assessment design, and mechanisms for continuous quality improvement—demonstrating Mapúa MCM’s commitment to academic excellence and student-centered learning.
Representing USM were Dr. Vrenelie II Decal-Flores, Associate Professor IV from the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Rahima A. Cabunto, Education Program Specialist from the Research Development Office, and Rey John O. Cortez, Editor from the Extension Services Office. Their active engagement in discussions contributed to a dynamic and collaborative learning experience.
The benchmarking session fostered a meaningful exchange of ideas between the two institutions, strengthening academic partnerships academic partnerships and enhancing USM’s efforts to refine its own OBE framework. The visit underscored the commitment of both institutions to delivering high-quality education and ensuring that their graduates meet industry standards and global competencies.
As higher education institutions continue to evolve, collaborative initiatives like this benchmarking visit play a crucial role in advancing academic excellence and fostering a culture of continuous improvement in education.