"Fostering and Creating Meaningful and Sustainable Relationships"
On August 29, 2023, with an air of anticipation and excitement, the University of the Philippines Mindanao community welcomed new and continuing students to its campus, marking the commencement of the Academic Year 2023-2024. A total of 353 fresh faces were initiated in the annual University Convocation for First-Year Students. This cornerstone event unfolded at the Davao City-UP Sports Complex Multi-Purpose Training Gym.
The gathering was formally inaugurated by the presence of Prof. Lyre Anni E. Murao, the UP Mindanao Chancellor. Addressing the gathering, Chancellor Murao stated, "Bayanihan. Ito ang susi sa tagumpay ng bawat mag-aaral ng UPMin. Sama-sama nating iangat ang bawat isa upang maging maaliwalas ang inyong paglalakbay sa susunod na taon.”
An engaging virtual tour offered an immersive first insight into the UP Mindanao campus, captivating the new students of the places they will soon use.
Shedding light on the prevailing learning landscape, Prof. Karen Joyce Cayamanda represented Prof. Annabelle U. Novero, the Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs, who did a brief overview of the institution's current approach. With a balanced blend of 50% face-to-face interaction and 50% asynchronous learning, this innovative model aims to enrich the students' academic experience.
Participants from the 2023 summer bridge program showcased their talents through a dance number, infusing artistic brilliance into the convocation. Subsequently, Budget Officer Jo-An Garcia, representing HRDO Chief Lynda Buenaobra, graced the stage with her introduction of the officials, administrators, faculty, and staff, who collectively form the backbone of the university.
Elevating the event's artistic grandeur, the UP Mindanao Dance Ensemble enthralled the audience with an expressive interpretative dance performance. The agile UP Mindanao Dance Sports Team seamlessly followed with a dynamic ballroom dance routine.
Commencement speaker Dr. Mohammad Khalil A. Guinomia, an alumnus from the BS Biology (Ecology-Marine Zoology) Batch of 1998, delivered an inspiring address. Dr. Guinomia's words resonated as he imparted, "Always remember that in every failure, in starting up again, you are not starting from scratch but starting from experience."
Taking the stage next was Mr. Reav Andrei P. Martelino, a freshman of the BS Applied Mathematics program who garnered the highest University Predicted Grade (UPG) among his peers. Mr. Martelino passionately emphasized the delicate equilibrium between academic pursuits and social engagement, underlining the significance of nurturing relationships and networks that stand the test of time.
Following this, the induction of the academic year's University Student Council (USC) and College Student Councils (CSC) officers took place, spearheaded by the chair of the University Student Electoral Board (USEB), Laurie D. Valdez.
A solemn moment arrived as the students pledged their commitment to their academic journey. Ms. Shenn Eunice G. Kawahara, adorned with the second-highest UPG, led the oath with grace and fervor.
Chief Accountant Zenaida Calatrava, representing Vice-Chancellor for Administration Asst. Prof. Leo Manuel B. Estaña, gave remarks to conclude the event. The grand finale witnessed the enchanting melodies of the university's official chorale, UP Mindanao Koro Kantahanay, as they serenaded the audience with traditional Filipino folk songs.
The resonating harmony of the university hymn performed by the choir, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of the UP Mindanao Agipo drum ensemble, brought this year's convocation to a poignant close.
With hearts brimming with anticipation, the UP Mindanao community embarks on an academic year infused with promise, growth, and camaraderie.
