On May 6, 2019, the DLSU JMR Institute of Governance (DLSU-JRIG) and the Carnegie Mellon University- Australia (CMU-A) with the support of Australia Awards and the Australian government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) launched the Policy Research and Development Course for the staff of Philippine government partner organisations. The eight-week executive course combines face to face instruction by academics from Carnegie Mellon University- Australia (CMU-A) and distance delivery supported by academics from CMU-A and DLSU-JRIG. Participants are expected to apply their learning to the policy agenda of their organisations, with support from the coaches in the form of policy reform papers.
The 27 participants from nine Philippine government agencies were welcomed by Dr. Jazmin B. Llana, Dean of the College of Liberal Arts of De La Salle University. Dr. Ador R. Torneo, DLSU-JRIG Director introduced Mr. Mat Kimberley, the Australian Government’s Deputy Head of Mission to The Philippines who gave the opening remarks, followed by messages from Ms. Milalin Javellana, Program Director of the Australia Awards and Alumni Engagement Program - Philippines, and Dr. Emil Bolongaita, Head of Carnegie Mellon University - Australia.