The School of Accountancy, Management, Computing and Information Studies (SAMCIS) of Saint Louis University (SLU) has officially entered into a partnership with East West Educational Specialist Inc. (EWESI) for the offering of micro-credentials and industry-based certifications to enhance the professional competencies of SAMCIS students and strengthen their readiness for the rapidly evolving global workforce.
The partnership was formalized through the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) held at the Alejandro Roces Boardroom, Fr. Jose Burgos Building- Administrative Center, SLU Main Campus on 22 October 2025. The ceremonial signing was led by Rev. Fr. Gilbert B. Sales, CICM, PhD, SLU President, together with Felina P. Espique, PhD, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Glory I. De La Peña, SAMCIS Dean; and Mr. Dennis Franco M. Layug, President and CEO of East West Educational Specialist Inc.
The signing was witnessed by SAMCIS Associate Dean Conrado B. Chan Jr., Head of the Business Administration and Entrepreneurship Department Zenedith P. Monang, Phd, and EWIES General Manager Aimee De Guzman.
Through this collaboration, SAMCIS students will have access to micro-credential programs designed to equip them with specialized skills aligned with current industry needs across business, computing, management, and entrepreneurship disciplines. These short, focused learning pathways allow students to gain verified digital badges and certifications that complement their degree programs and can be presented to future employers as proof of specific competencies.
Dean De La Peña emphasized that the partnership responds to the growing demand for “stackable, skills-based learning” that supports both academic and professional growth.
“Micro-credentials bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application. They empower our students to demonstrate mastery in specialized skills, making them more competitive in the job market and adaptable to emerging career opportunities,” Dean De La Peña said.
In response, Mr. Layug of EWIES highlighted that the partnership aims to strengthen the connection between academia and industry, ensuring that students are trained in competencies aligned with current standards and innovations.
“East West Educational Specialist Inc. is honored to collaborate with Saint Louis University, an institution known for academic excellence and leadership. Through this initiative, we hope to nurture future professionals who are both industry-ready and socially responsible,” Mr. Layug stated.
The initiative supports SLU’s commitment to transformative education, aligning with its vision to produce graduates who are globally competent, socially engaged, and values-driven. By integrating micro-credentials into the SAMCIS learning ecosystem, the University continues to lead in academic innovation and workforce development.
As industries become increasingly dynamic, the need for continuous learning and upskilling has become crucial. Micro-credentials provide a flexible pathway for students to build career-relevant portfolios, gain recognition for their skills, and open new avenues for career advancement, entrepreneurship, and lifelong learning.
Aligned with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 4 (Quality Education) and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), the collaboration between SAMCIS and East West Educational Specialist Inc. represents a milestone in the University’s ongoing efforts to future-proof education, ensuring that Louisian graduates remain at the forefront of professional excellence in the post-pandemic, digital era. Such initiative affirms the CICM Advocacy of Justice, Peace and Dialogue. (Article by SAMCIS | Photos by UIO)
