Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
Central Mindanao University (CMU) is dedicated to its vision of becoming the leading ASEAN university. The Department of Languages and Literature organized the first-ever Online International Conference on Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Cultural Management (IKSCM) held on September 25-26, 2024, via Zoom to support this goal.
Three cross-cultural speakers from different countries graced the international conference as plenary speakers, addressing topics closely aligned with the theme, “Language, Culture, and Arts: Culture Revitalization, Inclusive Education, Sustainable Development.” They also shared their insights from cultural research and extension in their specific fields.
Dr. Angela M. Jaime, Vice-Provost for Indigenous Engagement at the University of Saskatchewan, Canada, presented the development of the Indigenous Strategy called Opahotân|oohpaahotann, which translates to “let’s fly up together,” for the University of Saskatchewan, along with its various Indigenous engagement initiatives. She described the Indigenous strategy as the “right thing to do,” emphasizing its alignment with existing legal frameworks regarding Indigenous Peoples’ rights in Saskatchewan.
Dr. Le Dinh Bao Qouc, Chief Officer of EduVerse in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, also presented “How Culture Shapes Education: The Case of English Language Learning in Vietnam.” He emphasized initiatives that address the cultural aspects of English language education in Vietnam.
Furthermore, Dr. Marlowe U. Aquino, Director of Planning at Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) and the National Program Leader and Focal Person of the CHED-IKSCM Program within the PhilCanEDUCON Magic 7+ Philippine-Canada Education Consortium, presented on “Rediscovering Indigenous Knowledge Systems: Contextualizing Cultural Treasures for Community Engagement in Higher Education Research and Extension.” He shared his experiences in implementing the IKSCM project of MMSU for the local Ilocano community and other indigenous groups in Ilocos Norte.
Meanwhile, Dr. Rolito G. Eballe, University President, in a message delivered by Dr. Cherry Mae R. Balingit, stated that this conference aligns with the university’s mission of fostering academic excellence and global recognition. He also emphasized the importance of transparency, accountability, respect for the rule of law, and community involvement as key pillars of policy-making and development to ensure that the voices of Indigenous people are heard, respected, and incorporated into the larger discourse on national progress.
“Through this unique platform, let us continue to strengthen our collaboration, build on our shared goals, and empower Indigenous knowledge systems to be a force of positive change for our nation. This conference is not just a gathering but a crucial opportunity for us to learn from each other and ensure that their wisdom, culture, and traditions thrive for generations to come.” Dr. Eballe added.
Moreover, the 1st Online International Conference on IKSCM provided a platform for researchers and extensionists to showcase studies in several categories, including culture, education, agriculture, and other industries. A total of 23 presenters from various universities and agencies submitted and presented their research outputs during the conference.
This event was made possible through a partnership with the Magic 7++ Philippine Canada Education Consortium (PhilCanEduCon), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and CMU’s Office of Research, Office of Extension, and Office of Public Relations and Information. [Mary Jane D. Bravo]
