CHED MIMAROPA, in partnership with Mindoro State University, Marinduque State University and Romblon State University (RSU), and OMAHEI (Oriental Mindoro Association of Higher Education Institutions), successfully hosted the three-day USBONG (Uplifting Service through Borderless Opportunities and Network Growth) Orientation Workshop on September 16–18, 2025 at the University Auditorium, MinSU Main Campus.
The event gathered delegates from State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), local Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), and CHED representatives to strengthen collaboration and explore opportunities for academic growth and expansion.
Throughout the sessions, participating HEIs tackled internationalization, quality assurance, sustainability, and SDG-aligned policies. The following day, representatives from RSU led by their University President Dr. Merian P. Catajay-Mani, facilitated the optics about sustainability and aligning University programs with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).
"Challenges are the driving force in crafting new policies," President Catajay-Mani said in her speech.
Moreover, Mr. Dave D. Lota, RSU's SDG Center Head, highlighted that sustainability is no longer optional, but now a shared responsibility.
Their team later had a collaborative discussion on the importance of governance and leadership in university attaining SDGs. They outlined how policies act as the most stable mechanism in advancing the SDGs, and how they can be created to fit into the University.
The final day focused on enhancing research, developing international partnerships, and creating strategic internationalization plans. The workshop also highlighted the power of collaboration in transforming education.
By working together, MIMAROPA HEIs move closer to building a more innovative, sustainable, and globally competitive higher education system.
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