Rosefel Iritz Maghuyop

Aiming to enhance faculty competence in curriculum design, assessment alignment, and outcomes-based instruction, Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN), through the Office of the Curriculum Development and Services (OCDS) of the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, successfully conducted a Syllabus Writing Seminar-Workshop on January 14-15, 2026. The two-day seminar-workshop brought together faculty members for a series of focused lectures and hands-on sessions designed to ensure coherence between learning outcomes, teaching strategies, and assessment tools. It also served as a platform to standardize instructional practices in line with institutional and regulatory standards. Dr. Fernan Q. Abragan, Director of OCDS, opened the technical sessions with a Presentation on Grade Transmutation, providing participants with clear guidelines on translating raw scores into grades consistent with university policies. Dr. Abragan also facilitated the session on Test Item Construction and Formatting, emphasizing the development of valid, reliable, and outcomes-aligned assessment items. The session on Syllabus Making was led by Dr. Emmylou A. Emperador, Dean of the College of Education and Social Sciences (CESS), who guided participants through the essential components of an effective syllabus, highlighting constructive alignment and clarity of course expectations. Meanwhile, Dr. Eral Jane P. Canoy, CESS Graduate School Coordinator, discussed Table of Specification (TOS) Making, underscoring its role in ensuring balanced and systematic assessment coverage. A key feature of the workshop was the Presentation of Outputs and Feedbacking, where participants presented their completed outputs, including a course syllabus, table of specifications, and a sample examination. This session allowed for peer and expert feedback, reinforcing reflective practice and continuous improvement among faculty members. The Syllabus Writing Seminar-Workshop reflects MSUN’s ongoing commitment to strengthening academic instruction and ensuring quality, relevance, and consistency in teaching and learning. Through initiatives such as this, the University continues to support faculty development and uphold its mission of delivering transformative and responsive education.

Marking another milestone in teacher education, Mindanao State University at Naawan – College of Education and Social Sciences (MSUN-CESS) formally inducted 104 practice teachers during the 4th Teaching Internship Pinning Ceremony on January 12, 2026.  With the theme “Guided by Knowledge, Driven by Purpose,” the ceremony celebrated the transition of future educators from academic preparation to actual classroom practice.  Of the total number of interns, 56 are from Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSEd) major in English, 30 from BSEd Sciences, and 18 from BSEd Mathematics. In her welcome remarks, Dr. Emmylou A. Emperador, Dean of the College of Education and Social Sciences, underscored the significance of the occasion as a defining moment in the students’ professional journey. “Today we celebrate an important milestone in the lives of our future educators through the 4th Teaching Internship Pinning Ceremony. This event marks your transition from academic preparation to the noble profession of teaching – a vocation that calls for integrity, compassion, commitment, and professionalism,” she said. Serving as guest speaker was Ms. Gabrielle S. Aleligay, a Batch 2017 BSEd English graduate, who shared her experiences as a practicing teacher and reminded the interns of the trust bestowed upon them by the institution.  “That pin means the university trusts you enough to say, ‘You are ready. Now, go to the real classroom,’” she emphasized. The program also featured the Challenge and Acceptance Message delivered by Ms. Shaira Grace N. Wapin, followed by the solemn recitation of the Practice Teacher’s Creed led by Ms. KC Z. Tupag. A candle lighting ceremony and batch song symbolized unity, commitment, and shared purpose among the interns. Delivering the inspirational message, University Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa encouraged the practice teachers to embrace both teaching and lifelong learning.  “To our interns, remember that every child you meet is a universe of potential, waiting for a guide. Be patient in teaching and relentless in learning,” shared Dr. Roa. A heartfelt Tribute to Parents highlighted the vital role of families in shaping the future educators, recognizing their unwavering support and sacrifices throughout the students’ academic journey. In her closing remarks, Assoc. Prof. Gergie A. Ambato, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, gave a few reminders to the practice teachers as they embark on their internship.  The 4th Teaching Internship Pinning Ceremony reaffirmed MSU at Naawan’s commitment to producing competent, compassionate, and purpose-driven educators ready to serve in real classroom settings.

The vibrant stories, rhythms, and traditions of Luzon, NCR, Visayas, and Mindanao took center stage during the Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN) Employees Cultural Night held on December 17, 2025, at the Training and Students Activity Center.  The event served as a colorful celebration of the country’s cultural diversity, unity, and shared heritage, brought to life through the talents and creativity of MSUN employees. Setting the tone for an evening of celebration, Vice Chancellor for Administration and Finance Ms. Rhoda D. Perpetua, CPA, encouraged everyone to fully embrace the moment.  “Let us cheer loudly, laugh freely, and enjoy every performance, because every team on this stage tonight is already a winner,” she said, highlighting the spirit of camaraderie and appreciation that defined the program. Teams Megabytes, Oracle, Vanguards, and Exabyte Elites captivated the audience as they showcased the music, dance, drama, and cultural narratives of their assigned regions. Team Red Megabytes opened the night with the lively colors and festive traditions of the Visayas. Team Blue Oracle followed with a portrayal of NCR’s rich history and cultural expressions. Team Green Vanguards brought to life the dynamic and evolving traditions of Luzon, while Team Yellow Exabyte Elites closed the performances with a powerful presentation celebrating the vibrant songs, dances, and indigenous heritage of Mindanao. In her closing remarks, Cultural Coordinator Ms. Nylette C. Jarales emphasized the deeper meaning of the event. “Tonight’s Battle of Regions was not about who stood out on stage. It was about every culture standing strong together,” she shared, underscoring the message of unity in diversity. Overall, the MSUN Employees Cultural Night was more than just a showcase of performances—it was a meaningful reminder of the richness of Philippine culture and the strength found in shared identity.  Through storytelling, artistry, and collaboration, the event fostered deeper appreciation, strengthened bonds among employees, and reaffirmed MSUN’s commitment to celebrating diversity while standing united as one university community.

The annual tradition of the Employees’ Children’s Party continued as the children of Mindanao State University at Naawan employees gathered for a day of joy, laughter, and meaningful bonding on December 16, 2025. With the theme “Under the Sea,” the event transformed the venue into a vibrant and playful setting filled with colors, creativity, and excitement — perfectly capturing the wonder and imagination of the young participants. In her welcome message, Acting Human Resource Management Officer Assoc. Prof. Delyn M. Bucay emphasized the importance of family and appreciation, sharing, “Today, we are celebrating family, laughter, and togetherness. So kani siya na party is a small way of MSU at Naawan for saying thank you sa inyohang mga mama ug papa na nagatrabaho sa MSU at Naawan. So we extend our gratitude to you as their children. [Today, we are celebrating family, laughter, and togetherness. So this party is a small way of MSU at Naawan for saying thank you to your mother and father who are working in MSU at Naawan. So we extend our gratitude to you as their children.]” Throughout the celebration, the children delighted in various fun-filled and interactive activities, including learning games, a unity dance, a fishing activity, gift exchanges, and photo opportunities with kids’ all-time favorite, Jollibee. These activities not only brought smiles and laughter but also encouraged camaraderie and creativity among the children. The program concluded with a heartfelt message from Vice Chancellor for Administration and Finance Ms. Rhoda D. Perpetua, CPA, who highlighted the deeper purpose of the event. “We want the children of our employees na mahimo silang proud, mahimo silang happy that their parents work in MSU at Naawan, and then ma-expose sila kung asa nagwork ang ilang parents [We want the children of our employees to be proud and happy knowing that their parents work in MSU at Naawan, and for them to be exposed to the place where their parents serve],” she shared. Overall, the Employees’ Children’s Party strengthened the spirit of family, gratitude, and unity within the MSUN community, reaffirming the university’s commitment to valuing not only its employees but also the families who support them. (Data Privacy Notice: Photos of minors posted were shared with the consent of their parents. Photos from photobooth can be accessed here: https://tinyurl.com/msun2025photobooth. Use your institutional email.)

The Bachelor of Science in Fisheries (BSF) and Bachelor of Science in Marine Science (BSMS) programs under the College of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (CFMS) successfully underwent a Level II Accreditation Survey Visit by the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines, Inc. (AACCUP) from December 8-12, 2025. The activity formally opened with an orientation led by AACCUP Coordinator Dr. Simeon J. Cainday III, who explained the objectives and significance of the survey visit as part of the continuing quality assurance process in higher education. During the evaluation period, the accreditors conducted virtual classroom observations to assess teaching methodologies, curriculum delivery, and learning outcomes for both BSF and BSMS programs. They also engaged various stakeholders—students, faculty, alumni, and industry and community partners—in focused interviews, gathering feedback on academic support services, community impact, and program relevance. A virtual tour of the campus was likewise facilitated, allowing different university offices to present their facilities, services, and initiatives that support instruction, research, extension, and student welfare. The survey visit concluded with a closing meeting, during which the accreditors shared their preliminary findings, commended best practices, and offered recommendations for further improvement. MSU at Naawan, in turn, reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining quality standards and implementing continuous improvements in its academic and support systems. “This experience has reaffirmed our commitment to continuous improvement in providing quality education and service to our students and stakeholders,” said MSUN Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa. She added, “As the Chancellor of the Mindanao State University at Naawan, I promise, I commit, to uphold the values and standards expected of us as we move forward ensuring that we not only meet, but exceed the expectations placed upon us.” With this Level II Accreditation Survey Visit, MSU at Naawan continues to demonstrate its unwavering dedication to academic excellence, accountability, and responsive education. The university remains steadfast in advancing programs that are globally competitive, socially relevant, and aligned with its mission of empowering communities and transforming lives.

Recognized for its strong performance in the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) 2025, Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN) proudly stood among the distinguished Philippine universities and colleges honored during the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Internationalization Champions of Nation-Building and Sustainability (ICONS) Awards held on December 10, 2025, in Pasay City. MSUN Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa personally received the award on behalf of the university. A total of 173 universities and colleges were recognized during the ceremony, including several sister campuses from the MSU System—reflecting the collective commitment of Philippine higher education institutions toward innovation, global engagement, and sustainable development. The ICONS Awards is an annual CHED event that celebrates Philippine Higher Education Institutions for their significant efforts in promoting sustainability, achieving excellence in international rankings, pioneering internationalization initiatives, and contributing to the overall progress and prosperity of the ASEAN region. Congratulations, MSUN! May this achievement continue to inspire us to pursue greater innovation, strengthen our global partnerships, and uphold excellence in service of our communities.