The University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) celebrated its 23rd founding anniversary on 26 February 2018 at the UPOU Headquarters in Los Baños, Laguna. The UPOU’s day-long celebration was highlighted by the visit of UP President Danilo “DaniCon” L. Concepcion.
In his anniversary message, President Concepcion mentioned several times that UPOU will play a critical role in the teaching function of the university in the decades to come. This is because UPOU is “attuned [to the changing landscape of education] more than any other UP unit,” and because of its unique character as an institution of openness and accessibility. He also wants UPOU to prepare for this eventuality and make sure that UPOU is excellent in all aspects.
President Concepcion also commended UPOU for the public service initiatives that the university has engaged in to a wide range of sectors of the society – including disaster preparedness, health and wellness, environment protection and artistic pursuits and preservation of cultural tradition. UPOU’s faculty and staff members has initiated different projects such as the partnership with different organizations for disaster resilience; the Youth Capacity Building and Exchange Program for Sustainable Development of the Ifugao Rice Terraces; the different seminars and programs it holds for the health and wellness of its employees and the community under the UPOU Flagship Program TAYO (Team Approach and Youthful Outlook); and UPOU’s continuing partnership with wood carvers from all over the Philippines to help sustain the wood culture of the country.
President Concepcion acknowledged UPOU as being the perfect example of how UP leads and contributes to national development. “Serving the Filipinos is at the heart of UPOU. Its establishment widened the access to UP education and serve those who are unable to attend traditional class setups.” He mentioned agreeing to what former UP President, Alfredo Pascual, previously stated that the creation of UPOU was one of the best decisions UP made in the last decade.
He concluded his message by promising continued support to UPOU and reminded everyone that “in this rapidly changing world, what should remain constant are our values of honor, excellence and service.” (ACLlamas)
