The Southern Philippines Agri-Business and Marine and Aquatic School of Technology (SPAMAST) marked another milestone in its growing international academic presence after participating in the 9th International Ankara Multidisciplinary Studies Congress held on November 13–14, 2025, in Ankara, Türkiye. Organized by the IKSAD Institute, the congress gathered scholars and researchers from different parts of the world to share studies contributing to global knowledge and multidisciplinary collaboration. SPAMAST’s involvement was made possible through the support of the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS) and the Institute of Teacher Education (ITEd).
During the online presentation sessions, two research papers from the institutionally funded study titled “Exploring the Influence of Gender Awareness, Cultural Awareness, and Religious Literacy on Shaping Students’ Academic Experiences: Basis for Enhancing Student Services Programs” were successfully presented.
The first study, “Cultural Awareness as Determinant of Academic Life Satisfaction among College Students,” was authored by Colheen Belle H. Valiente, Sidney Jian G. Villegas, Ariel M. Larobis, Vinn Marco S. Miguel, and Aldwin T. Miranda. The second paper, “The Influence of Religious Literacy on Students’ Campus Life,” was written by Edel Quinn D. Casis, Jona Jean M. Delos Santos, Mae Fritz Moranta, Abdullah P. Mangalayon, and Aldwin T. Miranda. These research outputs highlight the importance of understanding cultural and religious factors that shape students’ campus experiences.
SPAMAST’s research presentations strongly contribute to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 on Quality Education by promoting inclusive, culturally responsive learning environments; SDG 5 on Gender Equality through the broader project’s emphasis on gender awareness; SDG 10 on Reduced Inequalities by advocating for educational practices that honor diversity; and SDG 16 on Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions by fostering respect, understanding, and harmonious relationships within academic settings.
This international engagement reflects SPAMAST’s dedication to strengthening its research culture, empowering faculty researchers, and expanding its participation in global scholarly conversations. By presenting studies that explore gender awareness, cultural competence, and religious literacy, the institution advances its mission of promoting evidence-based student services and inclusive educational development. SPAMAST’s participation in the Ankara Congress reinforces its commitment to academic excellence, international collaboration, and the continued pursuit of research that uplifts student well-being and institutional growth.
