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The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) and the Commission on Higher Education–Regional Office XII (CHEDRO XII) formally signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the implementation of the CHED Scholarships for Staff and Instructors Knowledge Advancement Program (SIKAP) and conducted the contract signing and orientation for its newly approved scholars on November 17, 2025, at the USM Graduate School, Kabacan, Cotabato.
Twelve scholars from USM were selected for Batch 2025, joining a national initiative designed to support faculty and higher education personnel in pursuing advanced studies to strengthen instruction, research, and academic leadership in Philippine Higher Education Institutions (HEIs).
Vice President for Resource Generation and Entrepreneurial Services, Dr. Samsudin Panday represented University President Dr. Jonald Pimentel. In his message he commended CHED for empowering educators through graduate education support.
The President conveyed gratitude to CHED SIKAP. He emphasized that the scholarship lightens financial burdens while inspiring scholars “to dream bigger, strive harder, and believe in their potential.” He thanked CHED for recognizing the university’s role in creating meaningful change.
“Your generosity nurtures talent and transforms lives,” the message said.
A message from CHEDRO XII Regional Director Dr. Rody P. Garcia, delivered by Engr. Jhan Jkem B. Fontanilla, highlighted the significance of the agreement as a shared commitment to raise the quality of higher education in Region XII. Dr. Garcia underscored that the SIKAP Program empowers the teaching force through advanced studies, research engagement, and lifelong learning, central to CHED and USM’s educational missions.
To the scholars, he emphasized their role as future leaders and catalysts of innovation: “You are now part of a community of educators dedicated to continuous growth and service.” He thanked USM for its continued partnership and support for CHED’s programs.
During the orientation, Ms. Mariel Zamora of CHEDRO XII presented an overview of the SIKAP Program. She explained that SIKAP is guided by CHED Memorandum Order (CMO) No. 15, series of 2019, and is a program under Republic Act No. 7722, the Higher Education Act of 1994 and aims to provide financial and academic support for qualified teaching and non-teaching HEI personnel pursuing master’s and doctors degrees in recognized Delivering Higher Education Institutions (DHEIs) such as USM.
The program supports both full-time and part-time scholars. Full-time scholars may receive funding for up to 3 years for master’s and 4 years for PhD programs. While part-time scholars may receive support for 4 years for master’s and 6 years for doctors degrees, allowing them to balance studies with institutional duties.
Meanwhile, Graduate School Dean Dr. Eimer Estilloso delivered the closing remarks, describing the MOA signing as “the beginning of a strengthened commitment to educational excellence.” He stressed that the heart of every institution lies in its people and that investing in faculty development ultimately uplifts communities and the nation.
Dr. Estilloso shared USM’s ongoing efforts to expand global visibility through international accreditation and linkages, citing recent engagements with institutions from Korea and Thailand. He thanked CHED for its continuous support in improving higher education quality through scholarships and accreditation initiatives.
Addressing the 12 scholars, he assured them of the Graduate School’s full support: “We are already a family. When you have concerns, don’t hesitate to come to us.” He encouraged them to complete their programs within the prescribed scholarship duration and to seek assistance whenever needed.
Present also during the event were Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Leorence Tandog, Associate Dean Dr. Mirasol O. Verona, the 11 scholars, staff of the USM Graduate School, and representatives from CHEDRO XII.
The partnership aims to expand opportunities for advanced studies, strengthen institutional capacity, and build a more resilient and globally competitive higher education sector for Region XII and the nation.
