The University of Northern Philippines (UNP) Open University successfully conducted a benchmarking visit to the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) at the UPOU’s headquarters in Los Baños, Laguna on December 16, 2024.

This activity is part of the UNP Open University’s efforts to enhance its open and distance learning (ODeL) programs and align with international standards.

The benchmarking visit was made possible through the approval of UPOU Chancellor Dr. Melinda dela Peña Bandalaria and the facilitation by Dr. Myra Almodiel (director of the Office of Public Affairs at UPOU). The UNP Open University delegation, led by its Dean Dr. Dolores R. Bersamina, sought to learn from UPOU’s best practices, innovative systems and successful models in delivering quality education through distance learning.

Key areas of focus during the visit included curriculum development, instructional delivery, student support services, and technological integration. UPOU’s established frameworks for flexible learning provided invaluable insights for the UNP Open University in improving its own programs and services.

The discussions during the visit highlighted the importance of innovation, technology and inclusivity in addressing the challenges of open and distance education.

The benchmarking activity also emphasized the potential for future collaboration between the two institutions. Both universities aim to strengthen their commitment to advancing accessible, equitable and quality education, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 5 (Gender Equality).

The visit marks a significant step for the UNP Open University’s internationalization initiatives and reinforces its vision to be a leading institution in open and distance learning in the region.

Article by Wilson Tolio.