DMPCS department chair Asst. Prof. Cinmayii Manliguez and Prof. Vladimer Kobayashi unveil the BS Data Science program marker, witnessed by Dean Cleto Nañola and VCAA Annabelle Novero.

Chancellor Murao, and the DMPCS constituents and partners at the BS Data Science launching.

Some of the pioneer BS Data Science students

UP Mindanao has launched its Bachelor of Science in Data Science (BSDS) program, marking a significant milestone as the first of its kind within the entire UP system. 

Spearheaded by the Department of Mathematics, Physics, and Computer Science (DMPCS), the launch held at Lorenzo Hall on September 4, 2023, marks a monumental step towards revolutionizing Mindanao into a data-driven powerhouse.

Dr. May Anne Mata of the College of Science and Mathematics underscored the pivotal role of data science in contributing to the region’s development. 

“Data science holds the key to unlocking the vast potential of Mindanao in improving agriculture, predicting analytics, and enhancing local businesses, to foster sustainable progress, tailored to resonate with Mindanao’s unique fabric,” Mata said during her opening remarks. 

The program’s inception is a response to the region’s economic growth. With Mindanao’s flourishing economy projected to grow by 7-8%, the demand for data science experts is high, currently projected to be at 340,000, according to Associate Professor Vladimer Kobayashi, its program coordinator.

Kobayashi emphasized that BSDS aims to produce competent data science practitioners with entrepreneurial mindsets, and skills in research and development to positively contribute to the region’s socio-economic landscape. 

UP Diliman’s Former Chancellor Professor Fidel Nemenzo, DSc, further addressed the need for an undergraduate data science program. “It’s about time that UP offers Data Science at an undergraduate level to transform Mindanao into a data-driven powerhouse. Its emphasis on advancing communities will shape a future for Mindanao and beyond."

The event was witnessed by its pioneering students, faculty members, and administrative staff.

Dean Aurelia Luzviminda Gomez of the School of Management

The Search Committee for SOM Dean: Marcelino, Sabijon, Sigue, Tan, Ortillo, Shotwell, Canceran, Ylagan

Prof. Jhoanna Lynn Cruz of the Department of Humanities

Search Committee for CHSS Dean: Sagadal, Ballerta, Alpos, Tan, Tampos, Martin, Aborde

The Search for Deans of two colleges proceeded in August. The School of Management's incumbent dean, Associate Prof. Aurelia Luzviminda Gomez, was the lone nominee for dean. In the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS), Prof. Jhoanna Lynn Cruz was the lone nominee. 

In the Public Forum on August 2, 2023, Dean Gomez presented the State of the School report that covered human resources, instruction, research, extension & public service, the administration, and alumni relations. In the Extension and Public Service, highlights were the SOM's various forms of public service that benefitted farmers, fishers, micro-, small- & medium enterprises in Region XI and the Bangsamoro region. The search committee was composed of UP Visayas Assoc. Prof. Danilo Ortillo as Chairperson, UP Cebu Prof. Tiffany Tan as President's Representative, with Asst. Prof. Myrafe Ylagan, Kasmira Blaise Sigue, Alma Marcelino, and student Charis Anne Canceran. Support staff were Keesha Eluceth Sabijon and Rhodeza Mae Amelda-Shotwell 

In the CHSS Public Forum on August 22, Dean Raymundo Pavo presented his State of the College report, a highlight of which was the creation of the Mindanao Studies Center, the three new degree programs in sports, and the various Academic Program Improvements.  Prof. Jhoanna Lynn Cruz, the chairperson of the Department of Humanities, presented her vision "Baluy CHSS" in the form of "Objectives." The CHSS Search Committee was composed of UP Visayas Assoc. Prof. Arnel Tampos, Prof. Tiffany Tan, Asst. Prof. Marbie Alpos, Univ. Librarian Briccio Merced Jr., Land Mgt. Officer Joel Sagadal, and student representative Armand Glenn Martin with support staff Aivie Ballerta and Coralyn Aborde.