Written by Janssel Bomay-et and Shaira Plandez (QAO interns, SBAA)
The University of Baguio (UB) warmly welcomed three delegates from Isabela State University (ISU) – San Mateo Campus for a benchmarking visit held on October 17, 2025, at the UB Management Conference Room (MCR). The visit served as a platform to strengthen academic collaboration and exchange best practices in research, information technology (IT) education, IT infrastructure, and teacher training innovations. Through this engagement, both institutions aimed to enhance quality assurance, institutional effectiveness, and academic relevance in higher education.
This initiative also promotes a shift toward an industry- and student-centered mindset, moving away from traditional university- and professor-centric approaches. It encourages the pursuit of social values alongside academic values, contributing positively to society. Moreover, it fosters an innovative culture that supports creativity and continuous improvement, reflecting both universities’ commitment to cultivating an environment that values progress, inclusivity, and lifelong learning.
Facilitated by the Quality Assurance Office (QAO), the benchmarking activity gathered nine representatives from the University of Baguio and three delegates from ISU–San Mateo Campus. The event served as a dynamic platform for collaboration among leaders, deans, and key personnel from both institutions, highlighting their shared commitment to academic excellence and continuous quality improvement.
Representing ISU–San Mateo were Dr. Larry B. De Guzman, BSIT Program Chair; Dr. Renalyn P. Mora, Dean of the College of Education and BSED Program Chair; and Ms. Kathleene M. Gonzales, MSLS, Campus International Relations Officer. From UB, representatives included Dr. Ellen Hallover, Dean of the School of Information Technology (SIT); Dr. Antonio D. Mangaliag, Dean of the School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts (STELA); Ms. Nona Gabriel and Ms. Michelle Chomayag from the Research, Innovation, Extension, and Community Outreach (RIECO) Office; and Mr. Kristian S. Corpuz, Ms. Lenilyn P. Malicdem, and Ms. Katrine P. Dumling from the Quality Assurance Office (QAO), along with Ms. Mae Janica Palkit and Mr. Gabriel Madriaga from the Linkages Office (LNK).
A significant highlight of the visit was the signing of a MOA between the UB and ISU–San Mateo Campus. This milestone signifies a deepened partnership between the two institutions—one grounded in shared goals of advancing quality education, research collaboration, and institutional innovation. The MOA sets the foundation for long-term cooperation in developing joint academic initiatives, conducting collaborative research, and exploring potential funding opportunities for innovation-driven projects.
In addition to plenary discussions, the benchmarking activity included guided visits to key UB facilities and identified areas, where ISU delegates observed operations and discussed best practices directly with UB’s academic and administrative leaders. These on-site interactions provided a deeper understanding of UB’s institutional systems, particularly in IT education, teacher training, research implementation, and quality assurance processes. The facility visits also became a venue for practical dialogue on academic management, innovation, and the integration of technology in teaching and learning.
Both institutions explored strategies to strengthen academic programs, digital transformation, and quality assurance systems, promoting evidence-based leadership and institutional advancement. As part of the program, the ISU delegation planned meetings with UB’s SIT and STELA to learn about UB’s best practices in IT, education and research. They also aimed to observe the university’s processes and procedures to gain a deeper understanding of its institutional success. Upon completion of the visit, ISU will prepare a comprehensive report summarizing key learnings, best practices, and recommendations for adaptation within their university. The one-day itinerary featured the signing of a MOA, development of research benchmarks, collaboration for future research partnerships, preparation of proposals for external funding, and exploration of academic program linkages.
This initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Building strong industry partnerships ensures that UB continuously refines its different programs to target and hone skills that can keep up with current industry demands. This, in turn, produces graduates who can meaningfully contribute to the workforce and build the economy.
Through this collaboration, the UB and ISU – San Mateo Campus reaffirm their shared dedication to academic excellence, strengthened partnerships, and innovation that drives inclusive, sustainable, and transformative educational development.
