By Mikee Natinga Norico
Congratulations Dr. Maredil R. Ambos, BEEd Program Head of the CPU College of Education, for completing the United Board Fellows Program Summer Leadership Institute 2026 held at Singapore Management University, Singapore. CPU is proud of you!
SINGAPORE — Dr. Maredil R. Ambos, BEEd Program Head of the College of Education at Central Philippine University (CPU), completed the United Board Fellows Program Summer Leadership Institute 2026 held on July 13–18, 2026, at Singapore Management University (SMU).
The Summer Leadership Institute, organized by Singapore Management University Executive Development in partnership with the United Board for Christian Higher Education in Asia (UBCHEA), brought together 25 emerging higher education leaders representing 22 colleges and universities from 10 countries and regions across Asia. The week-long program served as the opening activity for the United Board Fellows Program’s 2026–2027 cohort.
For more than two decades, the United Board Fellows Program has prepared emerging leaders in Christian higher education through a comprehensive leadership development experience. This year’s Summer Leadership Institute continued that tradition by cultivating a new generation of academic leaders equipped to respond to the rapidly changing landscape of higher education. The program emphasized leadership development as a continuum, strengthening connections among university leaders, faculty members, and administrators across Asia.
Guided by the theme, “Adapting to Disruption: Forging Resilient and Inclusive Higher Education in Asia,” participants engaged in interactive lectures, case studies, collaborative learning activities, and meaningful discussions on leadership, institutional resilience, innovation, and whole-person education. The institute also provided opportunities for participants to establish professional networks and foster cross-cultural collaboration among institutions committed to advancing higher education in the region.
Reflecting on the experience, Dr. Ambos described the fellowship as a transformative journey that deepened his understanding of leadership in higher education.
“The United Board Fellows Program at the Singapore Management University Summer Leadership Institute transformed my understanding of what it means to lead with purpose in higher education,” he shared. “The experience reinforced my belief that leadership is not simply about achieving institutional goals but about transforming lives through holistic, high-quality education.”
As a Christian educator, Dr. Ambos emphasized that universities have the responsibility to develop the whole person by nurturing not only intellectual excellence but also the emotional, social, ethical, and spiritual dimensions of every learner.
“Purposeful leadership means creating learning environments that empower students and faculty, encourage collaboration, and inspire every individual to become an agent of positive change in society,” he added.
The fellowship likewise strengthened his conviction that character remains the cornerstone of transformative leadership. While research continues to play a vital role in addressing societal challenges and advancing educational innovation, Dr. Ambos underscored that its greatest impact is achieved when guided by integrity, humility, compassion, and a genuine commitment to service.
Looking ahead, Dr. Ambos reaffirmed his commitment to applying the insights gained from the fellowship to advance the mission of Central Philippine University. He envisions fostering a culture of excellence that values academic achievement, impactful research, and the formation of graduates who embody servant leadership, ethical responsibility, and Christian values.
His participation in the United Board Fellows Program reflects Central Philippine University’s continuing commitment to international engagement, leadership development, and academic excellence. By empowering faculty and administrators through global learning opportunities, the University further strengthens its mission of producing competent, compassionate, and Christ-centered leaders who contribute meaningfully to the transformation of communities in the Philippines and beyond.