DMMMSU has officially joined the University Mobility in Asia and the Pacific (UMAP), further bolstering its commitment to internationalization and global academic collaboration. As one of nine higher education institutions (HEIs) from Region 1 to join the UMAP network, DMMMSU is positioning itself at the forefront of academic mobility and international partnerships.

The announcement was made during the UMAP Annual Conference, held at the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Central Office in Diliman, Quezon City, on February 26, 2025. The conference brought together representatives from various HEIs across the region, underscoring the collective effort of Region 1 institutions to strengthen international academic linkages.

DMMMSU President Dr. Jaime I. Manuel, Jr., expressed his excitement about the university’s new membership. “Joining UMAP is a pivotal milestone for DMMMSU as we continue to advance our internationalization initiatives,” he said. 

“This partnership will open new doors for our students, faculty and staff, providing them with valuable opportunities for academic exchanges, joint research, and cultural collaborations. We are committed to preparing our students for the global stage, and this partnership with UMAP will play a significant role in that vision.”

Since 2021, DMMMSU has sent hundreds of students for both online and onsite outbound mobilities and has hosted numerous students from its international partners. The university’s involvement with UMAP will further amplify these efforts, especially with its growing international partnerships in Asia, North America, and Europe. These partnerships, along with the university’s strategic internationalization programs, are set to enhance DMMMSU’s global engagement and academic offerings.

As part of this initiative, UMAP held a virtual information session to guide Region 1 HEIs through the membership process, ensuring a smooth integration into the consortium. UMAP facilitates academic exchanges, faculty mobility, and joint research initiatives among accredited HEIs in the Asia-Pacific region.With this new membership, DMMMSU will be able to provide its students and faculty members with enhanced opportunities for global academic collaboration, ensuring that the University remains competitive and connected on the international stage. (By Ralph Eian S. Agurin, IZN OJT)