To better understand the concerns of students, the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) Chancellor, Prof. Joane V. Serrano, welcomed the members of the UPOU University Student Council (USC) for a courtesy meeting on 6 March 2025 at the UPOU Headquarters, Los Baños, Laguna.
Asst. Prof. Roda Tajon, Director of Office of Student Affairs (OSA), Mr. Rodolfo Pullian, OSA Staff, Jana Denise Tomacruz, USC Chairperson, and council members Argenieddy Diana, Jessie Dalisay, and Arlene Mendiola attended the courtesy meeting to discuss student concerns with Chancellor Serrano.
According to USC chair Tomacruz, the student concerns were based on meetings and consultations conducted by the USC with other student organizations and groups in the University. The discussion centered on several key areas, including establishing student funds, enhancing student services, promoting sustainability in communities, and strengthening collaborative governance. The USC also highlighted pressing matters such as the expansion of mental health services, increased access to student spaces, ensuring prompt release of grades, and upcoming student activities.
Chancellor Serrano reiterated the importance of sustaining efforts and visibility of the USC to encourage more Open and Distance eLearning (ODeL) students to actively participate in student-led activities. Chancellor Serrano expressed gratitude for the Council’s proactive advocacy for students’ welfare. She reaffirmed her support for these initiatives, proposed potential solutions, and emphasized her commitment to fostering strong collaboration between students and the University administrators.
Written by Rodolfo Pullian ♦ Edited by Roda Tajon and Anna Cañas-Llamas ♦ Photo by Anna Mhari Duria