By Karren Jay G. Asgar

Prof. Ana Mae Bantad-Cantel, a full-time faculty member in the College of Computer Studies, is currently pursuing her PhD in Library and Information Science at Kyungpook National University (KNU) in Daegu, South Korea.

Central Philippine University (CPU) places great importance on the professional development of its faculty and staff, recognizing them as essential to the institution’s achievements and influence. The university’s Faculty and Staff Development Program is designed to provide growth opportunities and resources that support the diverse needs of its academic and administrative teams. By dedicating resources to its personnel, CPU maintains its exceptional educational quality while empowering staff to stay motivated and well-prepared to adapt to the continuously evolving educational environment.

Prof. Ana Mae Bantad-Cantel, a full-time faculty member in the College of Computer Studies, teaches the Library and Information Science programs (Master of Library and Information Science and Bachelor of Library and Information Science) and is currently pursuing her PhD in Library and Information Science at Kyungpook National University (KNU) in Daegu, South Korea, under the United Board for Christian Higher Education in Asia (UBCHEA) Faculty Scholarship Program. She was also awarded the KNU International Graduate Scholarship (KINGS), which covers her full tuition and fees.

In an online interview, Prof. Cantel expressed her gratitude for the support she has received from the Centralian community, stating, “I am sincerely grateful that the CPU CCS-LIS Department established the MOU with the KNU LIS Department in 2022, which has paved a way for me to become a recipient of the faculty exchange program. I deeply appreciate the support of the KNU LIS community, particularly Dr. Jongwook Lee, Associate Professor in the Department of Library and Information Science, and my academic adviser, Dr. Eun Youp Rha, Assistant Professor in the same department. Their kindness, along with that of my fellow LIS graduate students, has made me feel welcomed, and I have never felt out of place as an international student, despite my limitations in speaking the language.”

Professor Ana Mae Bantad-Cantel, alongside her research adviser, Dr. Eun Youp Rha, Assistant Professor in the Department of Library and Information Science.

The faculty development opportunity has significantly expanded her academic knowledge in the Library and Information Science (LIS) field, particularly in advancing her professional growth. The program has provided her with opportunities to attend conferences, engage in professional dialogues, and pursue advanced studies.

Prof. Cantel also shared her goals for this development opportunity: “With the support of this development opportunity, I aim to advance my research in the field of Library and Information Science (LIS), particularly in areas that align with the university’s research agenda. Additionally, I hope to continue enhancing the Library and Information Science programs of our University. I aspire to strengthen the collaboration between KNU and CPU by fostering more research initiatives and opportunities that benefit not only the faculty but also the students.”

One of the primary challenges she faced was the application process for a PhD in Library and Information Science (LIS) at various universities, as this program is not available in the Philippines. Consequently, she had to seek opportunities abroad.

“The support I received from CPU during the preparation stage was invaluable; their help in ensuring I had all the necessary documents, and their understanding of my needs made it significantly easier to meet my requirements. Now that I am at KNU, balancing the responsibilities of being a full-time student while being away from my children and family has proven to be quite challenging. However, with faith and surrender to God, I am holding on to His promise in Philippians 4:13: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

She encourages her fellow faculty members to take advantage of the scholarship opportunities offered by the University and its affiliated organizations. These programs not only promote personal development but also contribute to the University’s collective growth. While challenges are inevitable, she believes that with perseverance, a teachable attitude, strengthened faith, and the full support of family, colleagues, spiritual communities, and the CPU Administration, success is within reach.

“By having a clear vision of your goals, you can look forward to a fulfilling journey of professional growth. For me, this journey has just begun, but I am excited about the many wonderful ways I can serve and glorify God through it.”

Prof. Cantel’s experience as a recipient of CPU’s Faculty Development Program has not only enriched her academic expertise but has also strengthened her commitment to fostering collaboration and innovation in the Centralian community. Her journey exemplifies the profound impact that such development programs can have on educators, inspiring them to strive for excellence and contribute meaningfully to their fields.