The University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU), through the Quality Assurance Office (QAO), conducted online External Quality Reviewers’ Meetings with the Lead External Reviewers of the Master of International Health (MIH) and the Diploma in Research and Development Management (DR&DM) in preparation for the upcoming 6th External Quality Review (EQR) scheduled on 22–24 September 2026.
The online meetings aimed to provide the Lead External Reviewers with an overview of the UPOU EQR process and the activities and arrangements to be expected during the review. The sessions also provided an opportunity for the reviewers to raise questions and seek clarifications prior to the conduct of the three-day EQR.
The meeting for the Master of International Health (MIH) was conducted on 9 September 2026 with Prof. Leila S. Africa, MIH Lead External Reviewer.
The online meeting for the Master of International Health (MIH) program review Director Cabanes, Ms. Camalate, and Prof. Leila S. Africa as the Lead External Reviewer.
The session was followed by the meeting for the Diploma in Research and Development Management (DR&DM) on 15 September 2026 with Prof. Nina M. Cadiz, DR&DM Lead External Reviewer.
The online meeting for the Diploma in Research and Development Management (DR&DM) program review with Director Cabanes, Ms. Camalate, and Prof. Nina M. Cadiz as the Lead External Reviewer.
As part of the orientation, the meetings covered key logistical and operational arrangements for the upcoming EQR, including transportation and accommodation, food arrangements, venues, and the review itinerary. These discussions were intended to help ensure that the reviewers are familiar with the arrangements and activities leading to and throughout the three-day review.
The orientation also provided an overview of UPOU’s Open and Distance e-Learning (ODeL) framework, including its legal mandate, distance education pedagogy, learning technologies, and online infrastructure. It highlighted the University’s commitment to access, equity, and quality, as demonstrated through its quality assurance policies, national and international benchmarking initiatives, and data-driven and evidence-based practices.
Written by Erhiela Janelle N. Camalate | Edited by Ria Valerie D. Cabanes and Primo G. Garcia
