Towards a Regional System of State Universities and Colleges in Zamboanga Peninsula (ZamPen), Philippines

This research investigates the viability and potential advantages of establishing a regional system of State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) in the Zamboanga Peninsula (ZamPen), Philippines. The study uncovers compelling evidence supporting the implementation of a regional system of SUCs in ZamPen. Analysis of the higher education landscape reveals significant challenges faced by individual SUCs in terms of limited resources, constrained faculty expertise, and uneven student performance. By adopting a collaborative approach and facilitating resource sharing among SUCs, a regional system can substantially address these issues. Findings indicate that a regional system of SUCs in ZamPen would lead to enhanced operational efficiency, improved academic quality, and increased access to higher education for the region's diverse student population. Collaboration among SUCs would enable the pooling of faculty expertise, research facilities, and student services, resulting in substantial cost savings and improved educational outcomes. Furthermore, the research demonstrates the potential of regional SUCs to attract external funding and forge partnerships, thereby fostering regional economic development and driving innovation.