MSEUF upholds student representation in academic council; welcomes student voice in policy discussions

March 26, 2025

Gianne Pagana, newly elected University Collegiate Student Council (UCSC) President, addresses fellow students during a student-led activity, highlighting UCSC’s active role in university governance and student representation within the Academic Council.

Committed to student engagement and participatory governance, the Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation (MSEUF) has affirmed the value of student leadership by formally opening the doors of the University Academic Council to the President of the University Collegiate Student Council (UCSC).

Through Academic Council Resolution No. 3, Series of 2025, the UCSC President will now have an official role in Council discussions, particularly in matters related to student life, academic experience, and campus activities—giving students a stronger voice in the policies that shape their education.

“This is more than just a seat at the table—it’s an institutional acknowledgment that student perspectives are vital to academic progress,” said Dr. Benilda N. Villenas, Executive Vice President and Vice President for Academics and Research.

The resolution ensures that when relevant topics arise, the UCSC President will be engaged in the Council’s deliberative process, bringing forward insights, feedback, and the collective voice of the student body. This student's involvement signals a shift toward collaborative, inclusive governance.

“We believe students should be heard where it matters most,” said Dr. Villenas. “They are not passive recipients of education, but active co-creators of the academic environment we continuously strive to improve.”

The measure aligns with MSEUF’s vision to become a globally competitive university by 2030, driven by a culture of collaboration and inclusive leadership. It also reinforces the university’s core values of Mindfulness, Service, and Unity, Service, and Fortitude—recognizing the student voice as essential to a holistic academic community.

The UCSC leadership welcomed the development as a meaningful advancement of student rights and representation.

“This resolution marks a powerful step forward,” current UCSC President Gianne Pagana said. “We’re grateful for the trust placed in us, and we are committed to representing the student body with integrity and purpose.”