PMA Joins ASEAN University Network Quality Assurance
The Philippine Military Academy (PMA) has proudly achieved a significant milestone by becoming an associate member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations University Network Quality Assurance (ASEAN University Network Quality Assurance). This inclusion marks a vital step in the PMA’s journey toward elevating its military education to world-class standards. By joining this prestigious network, the PMA commits to aligning its education and training programs with regional and global best practices.
Vice Admiral Caesar Bernard Valencia, PMA Superintendent, emphasized the importance of this move, stating, “PMA needs to align our education and training programs, as well as operational procedures, with global best practices, enhancing our graduates’ effectiveness and professionalism.” This approach aims to integrate modern techniques and technologies, keeping the Academy competitive in the evolving military landscape through curriculum internationalization, cadet and faculty mobility, and partnerships with allied military academies.
ASEAN University Network Quality Assurance Membership Details
The ASEAN University Network Quality Assurance was established to harmonize educational standards and promote continuous improvements in academic quality among universities across Southeast Asia. The PMA’s associate membership signifies its commitment to these principles, recognizing the Academy’s efforts to uphold quality assurance in higher education within the ASEAN region.
This recognition comes shortly after the Department of National Defense approved the updated Bachelor of Science in Management majoring in Security Studies curriculum, which the PMA Class of 2029 will first undertake. The Academy’s groundwork for this achievement began in 2023, with academic personnel participating in AUN-QA training workshops designed to build capacity and prepare internal systems for integration into the regional network.
Significance of the Associate Membership
Although associate members have not yet undergone full accreditation or external assessment, the status allows institutions like the PMA to access AUN-QA’s training programs, capacity-building initiatives, and a broad regional network of member universities. The PMA is currently preparing for full membership by completing institutional and program assessments as part of its quality roadmap.
As the first and only military academy in ASEAN to receive associate membership, PMA joins a diverse community of member institutions: 71 from the Philippines, 12 from Cambodia, 36 from Indonesia, seven from Malaysia, 12 from Myanmar, three from Singapore, 20 from Thailand, one from Laos, 61 from Vietnam, and two from Brunei Darussalam.
Looking Ahead: PMA’s Commitment to Excellence
This achievement underscores PMA’s dedication to transforming military education and fostering academic excellence on an international scale. By participating in regional quality assurance efforts, the Academy positions itself to continuously improve its programs and produce highly professional graduates ready for the challenges of modern defense.
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