Davao city: The Mapua Malayan Colleges Mindanao-Arizona State University (MMCM-ASU) collaboration, in partnership with the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), shared valuable insights on Wednesday about strategies to promote Mindanao's economic growth and develop future leaders for the region. The roundtable discussion emphasized aligning student education with MinDA's agenda on innovation and the development of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

According to Philippines News Agency, the event titled 'Think Global, Grow Local: Empowering Tomorrow's Mindanaoan Business Leaders,' featured Andrea Bianca Gonzales, an MMCM faculty member, who spoke about the institution's goal to produce graduates capable of spearheading innovation in Mindanao. She highlighted their BS Entrepreneurship program, which teaches students to create new products, services, or processes that could support local MSMEs.

Gonzales further explained that students are encouraged to utilize emerging technologies available in the market or online. Additionally, the institution's service-learning initiatives expose students to MSMEs in rural areas, allowing them to understand the challenges and contribute to the region's development.

Romeo Montenegro, MinDA Assistant Secretary and Deputy Director, emphasized that the collaboration aims to ensure that services and products in Mindanao meet global standards. He pointed out that integrating global standards through this partnership could open larger markets for Mindanaoan products and promote the island as a viable investment destination.