The Southern Philippines Agribusiness and Marine and Aquatic School of Technology (SPAMAST) conducted an academic meeting and facilities benchmarking activity at Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSU at Naawan) on October 8, 2026, as part of its continuing efforts to strengthen its Fisheries and Marine Sciences programs and enhance the quality of higher education.
The activity brought together key officials and faculty members of SPAMAST, led by College President Dr. Lynette A. Bontia, together with Dr. Marlyn B. Llameg, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Karen E. Cabalquinto, Dean of the Institute of Professional and Graduate Studies (IPGS); Dr. Fe T. Canoy, Director for Instruction; Ms. Michelle Elemino, College and Board Secretary; and faculty members from the Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (IFMS) and Institute of Arts and Sciences (IAS).
The academic meeting and benchmarking activity provided an opportunity for SPAMAST to gain insights into academic practices, instructional approaches, and facilities supporting fisheries and marine sciences education. Through institutional engagement and the exchange of experiences, the delegation sought to identify relevant practices that could inform program enhancement, facilities development, and the continuous improvement of academic services.
The initiative also reflects SPAMAST’s commitment to strengthening academic leadership, promoting evidence-informed decision-making, and ensuring that its Fisheries and Marine Sciences programs remain responsive to the evolving needs of students, the fisheries and aquaculture industries, and coastal communities.
By learning from the experiences and institutional practices of MSU at Naawan, SPAMAST continues to pursue opportunities for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and academic development. These efforts support the institution’s broader goal of providing quality, relevant, and industry-responsive education while contributing to the sustainable development of fisheries and marine resources.
The activity aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education, through the pursuit of improved academic programs and learning environments; SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, by supporting the development of appropriate educational facilities and innovative academic practices; SDG 14: Life Below Water, through the advancement of fisheries and marine sciences education that contributes to the responsible use and conservation of aquatic resources; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, by encouraging institutional cooperation and the exchange of knowledge and best practices.
Through initiatives such as this, SPAMAST reaffirms its commitment to academic excellence, continuous institutional improvement, and sustainable development, further strengthening its role in producing competent graduates and professionals who can contribute to the advancement of fisheries, aquaculture, and marine resource management in the Philippines.
