L-R: Mr. Bryan dela Cruz, DZAS host, interviewing Chancellor Joane Serrano for 702 DZAS FEBC Radio-TV.
UP Open University (UPOU) Chancellor Dr. Joane V. Serrano shared insights on UPOU’s open and distance e-learning model and its continuing mission to make quality education accessible to Filipinos everywhere in the world in an interview with 702 DZAS FEBC Radio-TV on 29 September 2025 via Zoom.
Chancellor Serrano opened the interview by greeting the UPOU community and its growing population of overseas learners who benefit from the University’s flexible, self-paced learning system. She explained the concept of Open and Distance eLearning (ODeL)—UPOU’s mode of instruction that enables students to study anytime and anywhere—and discussed related topics such as admission processes and the use of Learning Management Systems (LMS).
She also highlighted the importance of Open Educational Resources (OERs) and Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), which provide free learning opportunities not only for Filipinos in the country but also for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and global learners. Chancellor Serrano encouraged the public to explore UPOU’s MOOCs and other course offerings, noting that learners can easily self-enroll and register online through the University’s MOOC platform.
A highlight of the discussion was UPOU’s partnership with the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), and the UP Alumni Association (UPAA) to extend educational opportunities to Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs). Set to begin in November, the collaboration will offer two specially designed blended courses:
- Introduction to Permaculture: The Ethics of Permaculture and Design Principles
- Principles of Graphic Design
These courses will be facilitated by volunteer instructors from the UP alumni community. Chancellor Serrano expressed her appreciation to the UPAA for their active participation in the initiative.
Chancellor Serrano emphasized UPOU’s unique position as a public service university, committed to democratizing education and reaching marginalized communities, including those in coastal, upland overseas areas.
Through programs like UP Ventures for International and Transformative Academia (UP VINTA), UPOU aims to connect with the estimated 2.16 million OFWs worldwide, offering opportunities for reskilling and upskilling through flexible online learning.
In closing, Chancellor Serrano said that UPOU remains dedicated to its mission of inclusive education — a university that gives people a second chance and, for many, even a first chance at education.
Written by Marinel Hernandez | Edited by Anna Cañas-Llamas
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