SU dean of students attends the 19th APSSA Conference in Singapore

Dr. Edna Gladys T. Calingacion, Silliman University Office of Student Services (OSS) dean and Philippine Association of Practitioners of Student Affairs and Services (PAPSAS) Inc. vice president for Private Universities and Colleges, delivers the Country Report of the Philippines at the 19th APSSA International Conference.

Dr. Edna Gladys T. Calingacion, Silliman University’s (SU) Office of Student Services (OSS) dean and Philippine Association of Practitioners of Student Affairs and Services (PAPSAS) Inc. vice president for Private Universities and Colleges, represented her office and organization at the 19th Asia Pacific Student Services Association (APSSA) International Conference.

Held at the University Town of the National University of Singapore (NUS), the conference gathered over 300 participants from 52 higher education institutions and organizations across 17 countries.

Calingacion delivered the Philippines’ country report, highlighting initiatives and programs in student affairs that promote holistic student development and success. She also facilitated parallel sessions on the first day, sharing insights with fellow professionals on transitioning students into university life.

Calingacion introduces the Philippines in her report.

With the theme “Transiting into and Navigating through University towards Student Success,” the conference provided a platform for exchanging ideas on addressing the evolving needs of students. It delved into sub-themes such as designing effective first-year support, implementing strategies for holistic development, and evaluating university transition programs.

The APSSA conference, a biennial gathering, serves as a hub for collaboration and professional growth among student affairs practitioners. The event featured keynote addresses, panel discussions, paper presentations, and networking opportunities.

APSSA is an “international organization promoting global collaboration among student affairs professionals and offices.” It has 37 institutional members across 10 countries, with a distinctive focus on the Asia Pacific region.

Meanwhile, PAPSAS, Inc. is an organization committed to “the formation of the Filipino educators through the conduct of effective and relevant programs and services addressing student issues and student affairs development.”