On August 20, 2025, Sultan Kudarat State University (SKSU) participated in the CHED Region 12 Leaders’ Dialogue, a significant gathering of higher education institution (HEI) leaders in the region. The dialogue served as a platform for discussing crucial topics that shape the future of education, including scholarships, the Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC), internationalization initiatives, Gender and Development (GAD), the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP), and IT infrastructure. These discussions are vital in addressing the diverse needs of students and communities, ensuring that HEIs are equipped to provide quality education that is accessible, relevant, and responsive.
SKSU was represented by the Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Marites B. Java, and the Director for Instruction, Prof. Michael Kennedy G. Camarao, who actively engaged in the dialogue and contributed to the discussions. The presence of former SKSU President, Dr. Teresita L. Cambel, added depth to the conversation, bringing valuable insights from her experience. The collective participation of leaders from various HEIs in the region underscored the commitment to collaborative problem-solving and knowledge sharing.
The topics covered in the dialogue are closely aligned with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The discussions on scholarships and ETEEAP contribute to SDG 4 (Quality Education), which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education for all. The focus on Gender and Development resonates with SDG 5 (Gender Equality), which seeks to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls. Furthermore, the emphasis on IT infrastructure and internationalization can be linked to SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), which promotes resilient infrastructure, inclusive industrialization, and innovation.
The CHED Region 12 Leaders’ Dialogue is a testament to the region’s dedication to advancing higher education and addressing the complex challenges faced by HEIs. During this event, we were granted the COPC for the Plant Pathology program, a milestone that demonstrates our dedication to quality and compliance in specialized academic offerings. Indeed, SKSU’s participation in this dialogue reflects its commitment to contributing to the region’s educational development and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.
