Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
Central Mindanao University (CMU) hosted a research delegation from Charles University in Prague, Czech Republic, from April 30 to May 14, 2026, reinforcing academic ties and expanding interdisciplinary collaboration.
The visit is part of an existing memorandum of agreement between the two institutions aimed at advancing academic excellence, internationalization, and joint research initiatives.
A highlight of the visit was the international seminar titled “Evolution, Behavior, and Health Across Species: An Interdisciplinary Seminar on Evolutionary Patterns of Growth, Ecology, and Visual Processing,” held on April 30 at the College of Arts and Sciences Auditorium.
In his welcome remarks, University President Dr. Rolito G. Eballe formally opened the event, saying: “On behalf of the Central Mindanao University Administration, I warmly welcome everyone to the Interdisciplinary Seminar on Evolution, Behavior, and Health Across Species. It is truly an honor to witness such a diverse gathering of experts, researchers, and scholars united by a shared curiosity and commitment to understanding the natural world.”
Dr. Eballe shared that the seminar reflects the growing importance of interdisciplinary dialogue in addressing complex scientific questions and noted that the presence of international scholars strengthens collaboration and knowledge exchange between institutions.
The seminar featured presentations by Charles University researchers Daniel Frynta, Petra Frýdlová, and Iveta Štolhoferová, covering topics on the evolutionary ecology of rodents, growth patterns in vertebrates, and human visual attention and processing.
In her closing remarks, Dr. Raquelyn J. Dadang, Director of the Office of International Relations, emphasized the importance of collaboration among academic institutions.
“Partnership is very important. There are things that one university cannot do all alone by itself; collaboration with other academic institutions is needed,” Dadang said.
She added that collaboration should not be limited to global recognition but must also benefit communities: “Collaboration is not only intended for global reputation, but the output must be translated in the communities—thereby making this world a better place for everyone,” she said.
Following the seminar, the joint research team is conducting fieldwork in selected areas of Bukidnon, including Mt. Kitanglad and Mt. Kalatungan, from May 1 to 13 to support ongoing studies in biodiversity, behavioral science, and ecology.
The activity was spearheaded by the Office of the Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension, in partnership with the Department of Behavioral Sciences and the Institute of Biological Sciences under the College of Arts and Sciences. Other participating units include the Department of Animal Sciences, College of Nursing, and College of Veterinary Medicine, with support from the Office of International Relations and the Office of Public Relations and Information. [Iyren Dalipe Neri with information from the Office of International Relations]
