Expanding Horizons: University of Mindanao’s Global Exchange Programs Foster International Collaboration

The University of Mindanao continues to foster academic excellence and global engagement through its vibrant student and faculty exchange initiatives, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This year has seen an impressive array of international exchanges, highlighting UM's dedication to providing diverse learning opportunities and expanding its international partnerships, especially in support of SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

In a recent milestone, two graduate students from UM have departed for Daugavpils, Latvia, to participate in the Erasmus+ Student Exchange Program at Daugavpils University. Ms. Richelyn Dumdum, from the Master of Arts in Environmental Planning program, and Mr. Archie Reyes, who is pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration, will spend a semester at the host university. Their participation in the Erasmus+ mobility program not only enhances their academic journey but also strengthens the ongoing partnership between UM and Daugavpils University. Earlier this year, three other UM students took part in a similar exchange, marking a continuous tradition of academic mobility. Beyond student exchanges, this collaboration includes joint research initiatives, particularly in biodiversity, further solidifying UM's growing presence in international academic circles.

UM's international program extends beyond Europe, with two students from the College of Criminal Justice Education embarking on a student exchange at Universitas Bhayangkara Jakarta Raya in Indonesia. Femalie and Darlene will undertake a diverse range of courses, including Environmental Law, Criminology, and Human Rights, enriching their academic perspectives. In turn, UM is hosting four students from UBJ’s Communication and Law programs, showcasing the spirit of reciprocal learning and mutual growth. Such exchanges play a vital role in equipping students with the confidence, resilience, and global perspective needed to navigate culturally complex environments and address global legal issues, supporting SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).

Further expanding its partnerships within Asia, UM has sent Ms. Kyla Marie Lagapa, a third-year BSBA Financial Management student, to Malaysia under the Asian International Mobility for Students (AIMS) program. Kyla will be studying international finance at Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM), marking a significant step in UM's collaboration with Malaysian institutions. The exchange will soon be followed by three more students who will commence their studies at top universities in Malaysia, further expanding UM's network in the region.

Marco Diaz, a second-year student majoring in BS Entrepreneurship, is set to embark on an exciting journey to Binus University in Jakarta, Indonesia. As the first outbound student from the BS Entrepreneurship program, his exchange marks a significant milestone for both the university and his academic path.

In another initiative, two third-year BS Computer Engineering students, Gemmuel Balceda and Jayvenn Drexcel Mancera, are preparing for a semester-long exchange program at King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT) in Thailand. Their participation, along with other selected students, highlights UM's commitment to providing enriching experiences that broaden academic horizons and foster a global perspective among its students.

These initiatives highlight the University of Mindanao's commitment to cultivating international academic relationships and providing transformative learning experiences, contributing to the achievement of SDG 4 (Quality Education) by promoting inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all. Through partnerships with institutions in Latvia, Indonesia, and Malaysia, UM continues to provide its students with opportunities to engage globally, participate in diverse cultural exchanges, and gain valuable insights that will help shape their future careers. These exchanges are instrumental in enhancing UM’s global footprint and establishing the university as a leader in international academic collaboration, in alignment with SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), fostering collaborations to promote sustainable development across borders.