Vol. 2 No. 2

Unveiling the Freshest Volume: ConnectUM’s Newest Edition is Here!

September 30, 2024

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
Jefte Herbilla's Guarded Dream: From Campus Security to Registered Criminologist

Jefte Carl Herbilla, a security guard at the University of Mindanao, had a dream that went beyond his daily duties. While ensuring the safety of students and staff, he was also pursuing a degree in Criminology, determined to create a better future for his family. Balancing work, studies, and family life was a constant struggle, but Jefte's resolve remained unshaken.

CAMPUS BUZZ
Autonomous Status Sustained: A Testament to Unwavering Academic Excellence

The University of Mindanao proudly celebrates a monumental achievement as it sustains its Autonomous Status for UM Main and UM Digos, while UM Tagum has successfully transitioned from Deregulated to Autonomous Status. This recognition positions three out of six schools in Region XI with Autonomous Status, underscoring UM's commitment to academic excellence and innovation in higher education.

CAMPUS BUZZ
UM Culminates 400th AUNQA Program Assessment

After local accreditation (PACUCOA), ISO, ISA, COE, COD, PTC, PICAB, and PQA Level 4, UM goes to the ASEAN University Network – Quality Assurance (AUNQA) for international certification. The University of Mindanao just culminated the 400th AUNQA Program Assessment last August 13-15, 2024. The four programs visited and assessed by AUNQA foreign assessors included the BS Criminology (BSCrim) of the CCJE; BS Hospitality Management (BSHM) of the CHE; BS in Information Technology (BSIT) of the CCE; and Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSED) of the CTE. These four programs belong to the most advanced programs in the university, all with Level 4 PACUCOA accreditation, CHED-COD and COE, and Seoul Accord-recognized program.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
University Leads National Rankings with Four Top Graduates in the 2024 Criminology Licensure Exam

The University of Mindanao has solidified its reputation for academic excellence by ranking as the top-performing school in the July-August 2024 Criminology Licensure Examination. With an impressive 92.75% passing rate among first-time takers, UM far surpassed the national average of 49.34%, showcasing the strength of its College of Criminal Justice Education.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
UM Produces Topnotchers in the 2024 Social Work Board Exam

The University of Mindanao is celebrating a significant achievement as its Bachelor of Science in Social Work students have excelled in the September 2024 Licensure Examination for Social Work. UM has proudly secured the seventh position in the Philippines among institutions with 51 or more licensure exam takers, highlighting its commitment to excellence in social work education.

INTERNATIONALIZATION
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).

CAMPUS BUZZ
Annual Review as a Strategic Step Towards Sustaining Excellence in Higher Education

The University of Mindanao held its Annual Management Review from September 18 to 20 at AVR 4, New Library Building, to evaluate the institution’s performance, assess key operational outcomes, and develop strategic plans aligned with UM’s mission of sustaining excellence in higher education, in line with Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education.

EXTERNAL
UM Karate-Do team chopped to triumph at Kadayawan Festival Karate Championship

The University of Mindanao Karate-Do Team bagged an impressive haul of 17 medals at the recently concluded 39th Kadayawan Festival Karate Championship, held on August 31, 2024, at the Lyceum of the Philippines—Davao. The team secured 7 golds, 8 silvers, and 5 bronzes under Coach Laarni Cortes, dominating both the Kata and Kumite events.