CED Faculty Members Attend 4th DOST-SEI International Conference
November 29, 2025
The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) has entered a new academic partnership with Muban Chombueng Rajabhat University (MCRU) of Thailand following a virtual Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing held on November 27, 2025. USM officials gathered at the Skyroom of the Administration Building in Kabacan, Cotabato, while MCRU joined from Ratchaburi Province, Thailand.
Dr. Leorence Tandog, Vice President for Academic Affairs, signed the MOU on behalf of USM President Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel. Joining her in the signing were Dr. Ma. Leslie C. Sales, College of Education (CED) Dean, Prof. Bryan Bretana, International Affairs Director, and CED faculty members Dr. Girlie D. Batapa, Prof. Ellen Joy M. Farala, Prof. Jay Regulacion, and Prof. Merlyn Musali.
On the side of MCRU, Acting President Asst. Prof. Ataphon Usayapan and Dr. Kriangwut Nilacupt, Dean of the Education Faculty, took part in the ceremony.
With the signing completed, USM now has access to several opportunities that can strengthen its academic programs. Through the agreement, CED students will be able to observe classroom setups in Thailand, allowing them to see different teaching approaches and gather new ideas. In addition, the partnership opens channels for sharing materials and academic information that can support instruction at USM. Faculty members may also engage in joint research projects with their Thai counterparts.
Beyond academics, the collaboration also gives students and teachers the chance to interact with a new culture and build confidence in an international setting. As a result, USM broadens its global links and supports its goal of giving the university community more exposure outside the country.
During the event, CED Dean Dr. Ma. Leslie C. Sales shared her thoughts on how the partnership started and why it matters. As she described it:
“What started as a simple conversation or just the thought of giving our students a wider view of the world…slowly grew into a partnership we’re very proud of.”
Following the signing, both universities will begin working on activity schedules, exchanges, and funding arrangements. The MOU takes effect immediately and will remain valid for five years, with automatic yearly renewal unless one party decides to end it with prior notice.
Through this collaboration, USM moves forward with more opportunities that support training, exposure, and international experience for its students and faculty.
