Southern Leyte State University – Maasin City Campus recently convened its faculty and staff for the pivotal "SLSyoUsap Tayo 2025" event held at the P.E. Hall on August 11, 2025. The session served as a platform for robust discussions centered on elevating the institution's academic standing to international levels, fostering a culture of professional excellence, and outlining key initiatives for the coming years. Esteemed guests, including SLSU President, Dr. Jude A Duarte, together with VPAA Dr. Constantino Medilo JR., Ms. Clairechille Jhulia Robin-Tan, VPAF Dr. Dewoowoogen Baclayon, VPRIES Dr. Francis Ann Sy, and VPSAS Dr. Marie Khul Langub, shared their insights and directives, setting a clear vision for the campus' future.

A significant portion of the discussions revolved around enhancing the curriculum to meet global standards and address the evolving demands of the job market. The introduction and expansion of micro-credential courses, and a greater focus on industry-responsive public administration program were highlighted as crucial steps. Recognizing the region's vulnerability to natural disasters, the need for readily available social work professionals was also underscored. Moreover, the university is actively pursuing internationalization through online collaborations and exploring cultural immersion programs in countries like Vietnam, Norway, Korea, and China, aiming to provide students and faculty with valuable global exposure, and improve the university's international ranking.

Central to the discussions was the emphasis on fostering a professional and apolitical environment within the institution. President Jude A. Duarte passionately addressed the faculty and staff, stating, "Avoid ill and politics. We must give promotion and designation to those who are capable and deserving. Grounded by expertise, qualifications, and performance." He further stressed the importance of meritocracy in hiring and promotions, powerfully asserting, "You cannot teach what you have", highlighting the need for highly qualified and competent educators. President Duarte also cautioned against campus factions, urging unity and prioritizing the collective good of the university.

During the plenary and interactive sessions, several key initiatives spearheaded by the SLSU-Maasin City Campus were brought to the forefront, recognizing Maasin City Campus' contribution of projects. A major highlight was the launch of "Project Soar: The SLSU Staff Development Blueprint," designed to provide staff with opportunities for advancement and reinforcement. Vice President Constantino Medilo also elaborated on the strategic expansion of micro credentialing, and the integration of Coursera to future-proof the university's offerings. President Duarte left the attendees with a powerful message, reminding them of their broader responsibilities: "Your part of a much larger external environment. Your interest should not be prioritized. Upgrade the University for good and for the better." 

In the concluding part of the event, faculty, staff, and student leaders who are present in the event were encouraged an open dialogue, in which concerns and questions from the campus' faculty were discussed within professional boundaries. On the spot solutions to those queries were professionally responded by Dr. Jude A. Duarte (SLSU President), VPAA Dr. Constantino Medilo Jr., VPAF Dr. Dewoowoogen Baclayon, VPRIES Dr. Francis Ann Sy, and VPSAS Dr. Marie Khul Langub.

The faculty and staff representatives, Dr. Jonathan Palco, and Sir Conrad Owyn Mercado, gave their impressions of the event, which were generally positive as it helped in improvements of the university. The "SLSyoUsap Tayo 2025" event concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and a clear roadmap for SLSU-Maasin City Campus to achieve its goals of international recognition and unwavering professional integrity.

(via Sophia Marie T. Calatrava | Pulse)

(Photos by Sophia Marie T. Calatrava | Pulse)