In a move to strengthen industry-academic collaboration, UNILAB Education President Atty. Jose Maria Ochave, alongside University of Makati President Dr. Elyxzur C. Ramos, PhD, CESE, and TESDA Negros Oriental Provincial Director Mr. Fletcher B. Gumahad, visited St. Paul University Dumaguete (SPUDumaguete) recently.

The purpose of the visit was to explore partnership opportunities aimed at offering short-term programs that bridge the skills gap between graduates and industry requirements. Both parties expressed enthusiasm about developing initiatives that will enhance the employability of students and better prepare them for the demands of the workforce.

SPUDumaguete representatives, led by Sr. Mila Grace Silab, SPC, along with the Vice President for Academic Affairs, Deans, External Affairs, and Clinical Instructors, welcomed the delegation. The university community was delighted with the prospects of collaboration and is looking forward to sealing the partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) soon.

This partnership aims to create a more responsive educational environment that aligns academic output with industry needs, fostering stronger ties between educational institutions and local industries. Both parties are optimistic that this initiative will open new opportunities for students and contribute to regional development.