SM City Mindpro has extended its academic partnership with Ateneo de Zamboanga University (ADZU) to support students in internship programs, future job placements, and foster collaboration, learning, and mutual enrichment. Lester Tantoco, SM Supermalls Regional Operations Manager for Mindanao, expressed the commitment to excellence, seeking like-minded institutions that share a passion for cultivating intellectual curiosity and nurturing the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and innovators. Tantoco added that the collaboration with Ateneo de Zamboanga University is an exciting journey in this spirit of commitment.
Fr. Guillrey Anthony Andal, ADZU president, expressed joy and enthusiasm in his address, emphasizing that the partnership represents a shared vision encouraging students to participate in real-world experiences and engage in activities that showcase their innovation and creativity, making a more meaningful impact. SM City Mindpro highlighted that SM's renewal of academic partnerships, involvement in job fairs, and provision of scholarship grants are among the various ways SM actively contributes to its community. Through this recent collaboration, SM City Mindpro aims to contribute to community development in the city through academic linkages.
Present at the ceremonial signing of the memorandum of agreement (MOA) were Andal, Tantoco, and Ateneo De Zamboanga University Academic Executives: Dr. Marjorie Emmanuel, assistant to the vice president for higher education; Dr. Robin delos Reyes, dean of the school of liberal arts; Dexter Veles, dean of the school of management and accountancy; Dr. Jocelyn Partosa, dean of the college of science, information technology, and engineering; Shiela Tiong, director of Ateneo College Guidance and Counselling Office; Conrado Balatbat, director of Alumni Relations Office; Renee Vieve Vecina-Kanindot, Executive Assistant to the president; along with Mall Manager Aileen Ann Villa-Enriquez and Senior Human Resources Manager Allen Macaso.
