On April 4, 2024, Apayao State College benchmarked at Mariano Marcos State University in Batac City, Ilocos Norte. The representatives for ASC were headed by Mr. Philip Constantine Mandac, Director of International Affairs and Linkages; Ms. Fredlyn Rodolfo – RGM Director; Ms. Kathreeza Castillo, Guidance Counselor; Mr. Jomel Princesa, Administrative Assistant of the College’s President; Mr. Dennis Dizon and Ms. Jenny-Vee Pumbaya, International Affairs and Linkages staff members. During the visit, they gained valuable insights at MMSU to enhance curriculum development, student support services, and internationalization strategies.
Through the best practice analysis with MMSU on curriculum development, their goal is to ensure our academic programs remain current with industry trends. This will enable them to meet their students’ changing demands. The University emphasized areas such as curriculum enhancement, student engagement, faculty development, and the creation of a conducive learning environment. The Office of Student Support Services of MMSU is divided into 4 main roles: Student Publication/Development, Institutional Student Program and Services, Student Welfare, and Career & Job Placement services. Each component has its functions with the main objective of fostering an environment that enables the student to excel academically, personally and professionally.
Moreover, for the internationalization strategies, the Strategic International Plan (SIP) outlines the University’s IZN roadmap in 10 years and provides institutional perspective and direction leading to upholding the University’s reputation.
The MMSU partnership with 14 countries and 8 consortia/networks leads them to international recognition. One of the significant international recognitions is the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) rated 3-star academic institutions making it the first and so far, the only state university in the Philippines to have this academic award.
As Apayao State College embarks on its journey towards internationalization, benchmarking its strategies with Mariano Marcos State University can provide valuable insights. MMSU’s well-established scheme recognized by international bodies can serve as a blueprint for Apayao State College. By learning from MMSU’s experience and adapting its successful practices, ASC can strengthen its international presence, improve its academic offerings, and enhance its support services, ultimately enriching the educational experience for its students.
Contributing Writer: Jenny-Vee Pumbaya, International Affairs and Linkages (IAL) staff
Photos Courtesy of IAL
