USM Professor Completes Leadership Training; Receives Outstanding RISE Award
July 9, 2025
The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) through the Office of the Vice President for Research Development and Extension (VPRDE) welcomed Ms. Meryem Sghir, the Industrial Development Officer of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) on July 10, 2025, at the Office of the President, USM, Kabacan, Cotabato.
Ms. Sghir presented a proposed project aimed at enhancing the climate resilience of fruit and vegetable farmers in Mindanao, with USM as a partner. She explained that the project will primarily focus on extension services and activities, including capacity building for farmers and fisherfolk, providing community-based weather forecasts, policy development, technology transfer, and innovation.
Representing USM were Dr. Debbie Marie B. Verzosa, VPRDE, Ms. Quenielyn L. Durendes, Vice President for Administration and Finance (VPAF); and Dr. Mel Chrisel Sales from the College of Agriculture. Dr. Verzosa presented USM’s ongoing partnerships aligned with the project’s objectives and highlighted USM’s strengths that support the project’s goals.
Notably, UNIDO had an initial meeting in January 2025 with the Extension Services Office of USM. The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) facilitated the collaboration of USM and UNIDO.
