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Western Mindanao State University visits UCLA to strengthen academic tiesThe WMSU delegation. From left to right: Ma. Blancaflor Jimeno (Dean, Physical Science), Mario Rojas Obra Jr. (Director, International Relations), Ronald F. Aba-a (BOR Member; President, WMSU United General Alumni Association), Inocente P. Locson (BOR Member; Private Sector Representative), Ma. Carla A. Ochotorena (WMSU President), Ret. Gen. Ramon Ochotorena (Regional Director, Office of Civil Defense region IX), Martin A. Wee (BOR Member, Government Agency Representative; Regional Director Depa

Western Mindanao State University visits UCLA to strengthen academic ties

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This visit by a delegation from WMSU established connections between the university and many departments at UCLA to increase collaboration and cultural exchange.


A delegation from Western Mindanao State University (WMSU), led by President Dr. Maria Carla Ochotorena and members of the Board of Regents, visited the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) on October 16 and 17, 2024. The visit served as a benchmarking mission to explore UCLA’s innovative programs in instruction, research, and extension, as part of WMSU’s efforts to enhance its academic and research capabilities.

The delegation engaged with several key UCLA departments and programs, including the UCLA School of Nursing (SON), the UCLA Library, the UCLA Archaeology Program, the UCLA Center for Southeast Asian Studies (CSEAS), and the Program for Early Modern Southeast Asia (PEMSEA). The visit aimed to further strengthen collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the adoption of best practices in these critical areas.

Hosted by Dean Abel Valenzuela of UCLA Division of Social Sciences, the delegation’s itinerary highlighted UCLA’s interdisciplinary approach to education and research. At the UCLA School of Nursing, Dr. Emma Cuenca, Dr. Anthony Tolentino, and Dean Lin Zhan warmly welcomed the group. Discussions centered on the School of Nursing’s cutting-edge programs and how WMSU might implement similar strategies to strengthen its health sciences and nursing programs.

In addition to the School of Nursing, UCLA CSEAS facilitated the delegation’s exploration of its world-class library resources with Southeast Asian Studies librarian Jade Alburo and hosted a productive meeting with the UCLA Archaeology Program, where ideas for expanding research collaboration were discussed. UCLA Center for Southeast Asian Studies and the Program for Early Modern Southeast Asia also welcomed the WMSU delegation, engaging in discussions focused on joint research initiatives and cultural exchange programs that could strengthen ties between the two institutions.

By hosting the WMSU delegation, UCLA CSEAS reaffirms its commitment to promoting international collaborations that elevate academic and research standards globally. This visit underscores UCLA’s role in supporting institutions like WMSU as they strive to enhance instruction, research, and community engagement in the Southern Philippines.


Published: Friday, October 18, 2024