UCU, UPLB collabs; hosts leadership seminar for HEIs in Region 1
Urdaneta City University, in partnership with the University of the Philippines - Los Baños (UPLB), successfully conducted a Higher Education Leadership Management Seminar (H.E.L.M.S.) on April 30, 2025 at the University Cafeteria.
The leadership seminar featured five dynamic plenary sessions that brought together higher education leaders, faculty members, and student affairs professionals to explore the evolving landscape of academic leadership and university governance.
Attendees included representatives from prominent institutions in Region 1 such as: the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), UPLB Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research & Extension, Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University, Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation, University of Dagupan, University of Eastern Pangasinan, World Citi Colleges Aeronautical & Technological College, PanPacific University, Lyceum-Northwestern University, Pangasinan State University, Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College, Pangasinan Polytechnic College, Bulacan Polytechnic College, and Bayambang Polytechnic College.
Dr. Christine Nabor-Ferrer, the Regional Director of the Commission on Higher Education - Regional Office 1 (CHEDRO1) stated that “Good governance is not the role of CHED alone,” highlighting that HEIs themselves play a key role in ensuring effective governance.
The Chancellor of UPLB, Dr. Jose V. Camacho Jr. expressed his sentiment, “For me, these kinds of sessions are enriching; it is refreshing. And especially when you deal with university leaders coming together, setting a common vision for university or colleges to make a greater impact especially in the community,” emphasizing how the endeavor empowers leaders to build a shared vision that drives meaningful progress in the community.
The afternoon session featured the university research governance, digital transformation, and the evolving roles of HEIs. UPLB leaders discussed technology-driven student services, edutourism, and collaborative knowledge-building.
An open forum and closing session concluded the event, allowing attendees to engage directly with the speakers and deepen discussions on key topics.
H.E.L.M.S. reflects UCU’s commitment to equipping leaders in higher education with the knowledge and strategies necessary to adapt to modern challenges and build a more collaborative and resilient academic community.#
