As part of the commitment of PSM of improving the quality of microbiology education of the country, the Education caravans were held as part of the program of the regional conventions of PSM Mindanao and Bicol Chapters.

PSM Mindanao Chapter held its 15th Regional Convention at the Central Mindanao University, Farmers’ Training Center, Bukidnon last November 12-13, 2010. The education caravan was part of the convention programme, which were attended by more than 50 educators from various institutions within the Mindanao region. Fruitful and engaging discussion highlighted the activity, as concerns on culturally and religious sensitive topics in microbiology such as halal practices and porcine anatomy and microbiology were raised during the open forum. The event was a success as measures to address these concerns were partially answered as well as positive feedbacks from both teachers as well as students were received.

The education caravan served as a pre-convention seminar of the 3rd PSM Bicol regional convention which was held last November 20-21, 2010 at the University of Northern Philippines, Iriga City. More than 60 participants from educational institutions of Bicol region attended the seminar. Sharing of strategies in pedagogy and classroom management highlighted the forum from experienced teachers such as Professor Socorro P. Del Castillo of Ateneo de Naga University.

The team from National Board namely Dr. Anthony Lee, Dr. Supachai Basit, Prof. Thaddeus Carvajal, Prof. Howell Ho who served as facilitators and moderators of the caravan, also gave talks concerning pedagogy ranging from identifying and addressing issues pertaining to resource availability and valid assessment.

These education caravans would not be possible with the generous sponsorship from Pearson Education, P&G as well as the cooperation of the hardworking officers of PSM Mindanao and Bicol Chapters.