By Jesslyn Keith Valite

Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) has partnered with the Small Enterprises Research and Development Foundation (SERDEF) through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed on April 30 at the Ferdinand E. Marcos Hall to strengthen research and educational development for the Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship program.

The MoU was signed by MMSU President Dr. Virgilio Julius P. Manzano Jr. and SERDEF President Melchor Morandante. The ceremony was witnessed by the College of Business, Economics, and Accountancy (CBEA) Dean Angelina Abrojena, along with entrepreneurship faculty and students.

Through this partnership, MMSU and SERDEF commit to a shared goal of enhancing business and entrepreneurial capacities through collaborative research, extension programs, training, and knowledge-sharing initiatives.

Dr. Manzano expressed optimism about the partnership, emphasizing its potential impact on student learning. “This collaboration will help strengthen the entrepreneurial competencies of our students and support our mission of creating future-ready graduates who can contribute to economic development,” he said.

Meanwhile, President Morandante reaffirmed SERDEF’s commitment to supporting MMSU in nurturing young and aspiring entrepreneurs.

According to the University Registrar, 184 students are enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship program at CBEA for the academic year 2024–2025.

Established in 1976, SERDEF is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting entrepreneurship and the growth of small and medium enterprises in the Philippines. The foundation envisions a culture-centered approach to enterprise development nationwide.