The Colombo Plan Staff College (CPSC), recognized as one among strong international partners of the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) received a Plaque of Appreciation as Partner in celebration of its 30th Anniversary held on February 28, 2025 at Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines. CPSC was represented by Prof. Naeem Yaqoob, CPSC Faculty Specialist; and Ms. Arlene Cruz, CPSC Executive Secretary.

The anniversary event was a grand tri-conference hosted by UPOU, UPOU Foundation, Inc. (UPOUFI), and the Philippine Society for Distance Education (PSDL), with the theme “Constancy, Change, Co-existence.” In addition, the tri-conference convened international scholars, educators, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss the future of education, research, and technology.

During the event, Atty. Angelo A. Jimenez, President of the University of the Philippines, delivered the keynote address. In his speech, he congratulated UPOU for its 30 years of success in expanding access to education through distance learning. He also encouraged UPOU to continue its good work but pursue a more updated educational agenda such as embracing latest educational trends including artificial intelligence (AI).

Ms. Arlene Cruz (left) and Prof. Naeem Yaqoob (right) pose for a picture after receiving the Plaque of Appreciation

UPOU, celebrating its 30 years of achievements in collaboration with various academic partner institutions and international organizations honored its partners including CPSC. Prof. Naeem received the Plaque of Appreciation on behalf of CPSC. President Jimenez warmly welcomed the CPSC team and expressed his appreciation to CPSC for coming to the event and conveyed that he will be pleased to attend any future events of CPSC.

Prof. Naeem (right) and Ms. Cruz (center) capture a photo with Dr. Joane V. Serrano, the newly installed UPOU Chancellor (left)

Following the ceremony, Prof. Naeem and Ms. Cruz met with Dr. Joane V. Serrano, the newly installed UPOU Chancellor. Dr. Serrano expressed enthusiasm for future collaborations between CPSC and UPOU.

The CPSC team also had the opportunity to meet with Ms. Emely Amoloza, Assistant Professor and Program Development Associate for Extension/Public Service and former CPSC’s Expert for the Future Movers Program. She warmly welcomed the CPSC team and also conveyed her interest to work again for any CPSC projects.

The University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) is a public research university and is the fifth constituent university of the University of the Philippines System. As a longtime partner, CPSC had been inviting resource persons from UPOU and some of the study visits conducted by the Staff College were held at the University.