The Southern Philippines Agri-Business and Marine and Aquatic School of Technology (SPAMAST) actively participated in the Higher Education Summit 2026 held from March 10–12, 2026 at the SMX Convention Center Clark. The College President, Dr. Lynette A. Bontia, and Board Secretary, Ms. Michelle Elemino, represented SPAMAST in the three-day gathering of higher education leaders, policymakers, and development partners focused on advancing transformative education and strengthening institutional collaborations.
Carrying the theme “Achieving Sustainable Futures: Transformative Higher Education for Human Capital, Innovation, and Global Responsibility,” the summit gathered leaders from higher education institutions, policymakers, and development partners to discuss innovative pathways toward strengthening higher education systems and advancing sustainable development.
During the three-day summit, participants engaged in panel discussions, networking opportunities, and partnership-building activities, including Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing ceremonies aimed at strengthening collaboration among institutions in research, innovation, and academic development.
The second day of the summit focused on the SDG Action Summit: Higher Education, Science, and Technology, with the theme “Towards a Unified Higher Education Pathway for Achieving the SDGs.” The discussions highlighted the crucial role of universities and colleges in advancing sustainable development through research, innovation, and inclusive education initiatives.
On the third day, participants are expected to take part in information-sharing sessions with Education Malaysia Global Services, which will explore opportunities for academic collaboration and internationalization in higher education. The day will also feature sessions on “Shaping Higher Education Pathways” led by DAP-BAGANI, focusing on strategies for strengthening regional and global education partnerships.
Dr. Bontia’s participation in the summit reflects SPAMAST’s commitment to expanding global linkages, enhancing academic collaboration, and contributing to transformative higher education initiatives that respond to emerging global challenges.
Through its engagement in international and national education platforms, SPAMAST continues to strengthen its role in developing competent graduates, advancing research and innovation, and promoting responsible leadership for sustainable development.
This initiative contributes to the attainment of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). 
