Written by Alicia D. Rivera, MA.Ed
The University of Baguio Research and Extension Innovation Outreach Office, under the leadership of Dr. Donnamarie Villa Panday Herbster, successfully conducted a Research Reskilling Training on March 2, 2026, at the UBLES Quadrangle. This initiative was designed to strengthen the research competencies of educators, equipping them with updated strategies and innovative approaches to mentoring student research.
The event gathered 24 teachers who actively participated in the sessions, reflecting the university’s strong commitment to continuous professional development. The atmosphere was vibrant and collaborative, with educators engaging in discussions, exchanging insights, and exploring new methods to enhance their research guidance.
Two distinguished resource speakers led the training. Dr. Dahlia Soriano of the School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts delivered an in-depth session on Paneling and Advising Research, emphasizing the importance of constructive evaluation and the role of panels in ensuring quality research outputs. Meanwhile, Ms. Krizza Mae Balisong of UB High School shared practical strategies on Questionnaire Preparation, highlighting the need for clarity, validity, and reliability in research instruments. Their expertise provided participants with a holistic view of the research mentoring process, bridging theory with practical application.
Beyond technical skills, the training fostered a spirit of collaboration and innovation among educators. Teachers reflected on their current practices, identified areas for improvement, and embraced new approaches that will better support their students in producing meaningful research. The interactive nature of the sessions ensured that participants not only absorbed knowledge but also applied it in ways relevant to their teaching contexts.
The Research Reskilling Training directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:
- SDG 4: Quality Education – by enhancing the capacity of teachers to mentor and evaluate research, the university ensures that learners receive high-quality guidance that fosters critical thinking and innovation.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – through the promotion of research excellence, educators are empowered to drive innovation and contribute to knowledge creation that supports sustainable development.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – the collaborative nature of the training highlights the importance of partnerships among educators, departments, and institutions in achieving shared academic and developmental objectives.
This alignment underscores the University of Baguio’s role not only as a center of academic excellence but also as a proactive contributor to global development initiatives. By equipping educators with updated methodologies and fostering a culture of research, the institution strengthens its mission of shaping future-ready learners and advancing knowledge for the greater good. For the 24 teachers who participated, the training was more than just a professional development activity—it was a reaffirmation of their vital role in shaping the future of education and research, both within the university and in the broader community.
