
Instilling Values, Shaping Leaders: Prof. Jeffrey Litan on Teaching the University Identity Course (UID)
- Categories GEN-ED-UID
- Date September 20, 2024
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By: Leila R. Gano, PhD., EdD.
Instilling Values, Shaping Leaders: Prof. Jeffrey Litan on Teaching the University Identity Course (UID)
The University Identity Course (UID) at Universidad de Manila (UDM) stands as a cornerstone in the institution’s efforts to shape students into visionary and ethical leaders who create a positive impact on society. This transformative course, rooted in UDM’s core values of Ethics and Integrity, Quality and Excellence, Unity and Collaboration, Achievement and Passion, and Leadership and Innovation (E.Q.U.A.L.), goes beyond traditional academic pursuits to cultivate individuals ready to address real-world challenges.
Prof. Jeffrey Litan, who serves as both a professor of the UID program and the Vice President for Comptrollership at UDM, shared his insights about the course’s impact on students and the broader academic community. His dual roles provide him with a unique perspective on how the values taught in UID translate into tangible outcomes both within and beyond the university.
Fostering Growth Through Practical Lessons
“The UID program instills a strong sense of identity and responsibility in our students,” Prof. Litan said. “It bridges the gap between academic learning and real-world application by embedding the university’s core values into their mindset.”
According to Prof. Litan, the curriculum emphasizes practical applications to ensure lasting impact. By integrating real-life scenarios and group-based projects, the course helps students connect theoretical concepts with real-world challenges. “For example, during sessions on teamwork and collaboration, we use interactive activities like community problem-solving projects. These allow students to practice ethical leadership and collaborative decision-making, preparing them for future roles in society,” he explained.
Transforming Perspectives
Prof. Litan has observed profound changes in students after taking the UID course. “Many students exhibit a noticeable shift in their attitude and outlook,” he shared. “They become more confident in their ability to contribute to their communities and start to view themselves as leaders, even in small ways. This is particularly evident in how they approach teamwork and take initiative in organizing community-based initiatives.”
The course also helps students develop pride and civic responsibility, particularly as young citizens of Manila. “We aim to foster a sense of belonging and accountability in our students. By understanding their role in the city’s progress, they take greater pride in their identity as Manileños,” Prof. Litan said.
A Visionary Approach to Leadership
As the Vice President for Comptrollership, Prof. Litan also sees the broader institutional benefits of embedding UID’s principles into the curriculum. “The values we teach—ethics, integrity, and leadership—are crucial for creating a culture of accountability and innovation within the university. These principles extend to all aspects of university operations, from financial management to strategic planning.”
Impact Beyond the Classroom
The ripple effect of UID extends beyond students to professors, the university administration, and even the community. “Professors are inspired to align their teaching with the university’s core values, fostering a cohesive academic environment,” he said. “The administration benefits from a student body that is motivated, engaged, and aligned with UDM’s vision. Moreover, the broader community feels the impact through student-led initiatives that address societal needs.”
A Model for Other Institutions
Prof. Litan believes that the UID program serves as a model for other institutions aiming to balance academic excellence with character development. “By instilling values and practical leadership skills, we prepare students to not only excel in their chosen careers but also to become ethical contributors to society. It’s a holistic approach to education that every institution can learn from,” he concluded.
As UDM continues to uphold its mission of developing future-ready graduates, the University Identity Course remains a vital element in achieving this goal. Through the dedication of educators like Prof. Jeffrey Litan, UDM ensures that its students embody the values of E.Q.U.A.L., making them not just exceptional graduates but transformative leaders of tomorrow.
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