USM-DELL Rolls Out Component I of SULAT through Campus Journalism Training
March 3, 2026
The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) held its 2026 Book Fair and Exhibit featuring eleven exhibitors that offered academic and professional titles for university programs on March 2-4 at the Kundo E. Pahm Learning Resource Center (KEPLRC), USM, Kabacan, Cotabato.
The fair coincided with activities for World Water Day and World Engineering Day that highlighted the connection between education, innovation, and environmental responsibility. Participants were encouraged to apply knowledge to real-world challenges, including sustainable practices and technological solutions.
In his message, USM President Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel encouraged practical steps such as tree planting to link learning with environmental stewardship.
“Reading hardbound books gives an experience different from e-books, but with modern inventions, we must adapt to the technology we have today,” the President emphasized.
The book fair allowed academic units to update their textbook and reference collections. Each department received ₱50,000 to select titles for their programs. Dr. Leorence C. Tandog, Vice President for Academic Affairs, said careful selection of books can be both practical and rewarding. USM Vice President for Administration and Finance Ms. Quenielyn L. Durendes added that promoting reading helps develop informed and confident leaders.
During the observances, Dr. Maricel Dayaday, Dean of College of Engineering and Information Technology, noted the importance of connecting engineering and water management.
“When we combine the World Engineering Day and the World Water Day, we can see the profound truth that innovation and stewardship must go hand in hand,” Dr. Dayaday noted.
This year’s World Engineering Day theme, “Smart Engineering for a Sustainable Future through Innovation and Digitalization,” supports the Sustainable Development Goals, including clean water, sustainable cities, climate action, and responsible production. World Water Day, themed “Water and Gender,” focused on water access, sanitation, and gender equality.
The World Engineering and World Water celebration will also include webinars with international scholars discussing water, engineering, and sustainability. While the three-day book fair gathering brought together students, faculty, administrators, and guests to connect academic knowledge with practical issues.
