SM Supermalls in Cebu and the University of Cebu have officially renewed their academic partnership, extending a collaboration aimed at supporting students through internship programs, job placements, and shared learning opportunities.
The renewal ceremony, held on Monday, August 19, at SM City Cebu, underscores SM’s ongoing commitment to community engagement and educational enrichment.
This extended partnership, set to last over the next three years, will see SM Supermalls actively participating in job fairs and offering scholarship grants, further strengthening its role in community development in Cebu.
The collaboration is designed not only to provide practical experiences and employment opportunities for students but also to foster a deeper connection between academia and the business sector.
The event was attended by prominent figures from both institutions, including UC’s Executive Vice Chancellor Atty. Jack Sarausad, Linkages and Marketing Coordinator Mr. Nino Ardiza, and directors and heads from various UC campuses.
Representing SM Supermalls were HR Managers Andrietta Daniel of SM City Cebu, Christy Anne Mercado of SM Seaside City Cebu, and Liane Bureros of SM City Consolacion. Marissa Fernan, Vice President of SM Prime Holdings, Inc., and SM City Cebu Assistant Mall Manager Marilou Kiunisala were also in attendance.
The renewed agreement highlights a mutual commitment to enriching the educational landscape and preparing students for the challenges of the future workforce.
By bridging the gap between academic training and real-world applications, SM Supermalls and the University of Cebu aim to create a vibrant learning environment that benefits students, the community, and the broader economic ecosystem in Cebu.