Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
Central Mindanao University (CMU) marked its 114th Founding Anniversary and Alumni Homecoming with a series of activities commemorating its long-standing commitment to academic excellence. Anchored on the theme “Global Citizenship through Lifelong Learning and Innovation,” the celebration ran from September 12-15.
The celebration began with a Holy Mass at the CAS Auditorium, followed by an inspiring opening address from the University President, Dr. Rolito G. Eballe. In his speech, Dr. Eballe expressed pride in CMU’s achievements, emphasizing the institution’s unwavering dedication to its mandate. He highlighted CMU’s legacy of excellence and its role in shaping global citizens.
“CMUans are everywhere in the world now. For this, we can now literally and figuratively call ourselves global citizens,” he remarked, emphasizing how the university’s alumni have made their mark in various sectors globally.
Dr. Eballe also paid tribute to the dedication of CMU’s faculty and staff, recognizing their role in upholding the university’s core values. He encouraged students to align their character and growth with CMU’s mission and vision, guided by respect, understanding, and commitment.
The opening program concluded with a solemn wreath-laying ceremony honoring CMU’s founders and trailblazers whose contributions laid the foundation for the university’s success. The celebration continued throughout the week with various student-led activities, including a parade, amazing race, band night, bench chant, mass dance, saludo, drag race, acquaintance party, and literary events, among others.
Moreover, the University celebrated its foundation through an international symposium, which focused on enhancing the knowledge of faculty, staff, and students on the principles of and the latest trends and opportunities in internationalization, encouraging wider participation in global programs.
Simultaneously, a medical mission at the Fulbright Garden organized by the Alumni offered free consultations to the CMU community. Additionally, an ALUMinar was held at the Farmers Training Center, covering essential topics such as anti-hazing, bullying, sexual harassment, and mental health, aiming to foster a safer and more supportive academic environment.
Other highlights included the Employee Awards, Alumni Fellowship Dinner, as well as the much-anticipated Alumni Awards ceremony, which honored distinguished alumni for their outstanding contributions in their respective fields. The unified foundation culminated with the Rodeo sa Musuan held at the Catching Coral, which attracted thousands of spectators and alumni.
CMU’s 114th anniversary celebrates its legacy of fostering global citizens while looking ahead grounded in the values of excellence, integrity, and unity in diversity. [Iyren Dalipe Neri]
