SMU Successfully Maintains ISO 21001:2018 Certification After First Surveillance Audit

Saint Mary’s University (SMU) has successfully maintained its ISO 21001:2018 certification following the completion of its First Surveillance Audit conducted by SETSCO Services Pte. Ltd. from June 23 to 25, 2026. This achievement affirms the University’s continued conformity with international standards for Educational Organization Management Systems (EOMS) and its unwavering commitment to quality education and continuous improvement.

The three-day audit evaluated the effectiveness and continued implementation of SMU’s EOMS across its basic and higher education units. The audit covered academic, administrative, and support processes, including enrollment and graduation services, library operations, information and communications technology, research, physical infrastructure, financial management, human resource management, and academic program implementation.

Led by Ms. Maria Gwendolyn B. Red of SETSCO Services Pte. Ltd., the surveillance audit focused on confirming the continued conformity and effectiveness of the University’s management system. The audit also reviewed leadership commitment, strategic planning, risk and opportunity management, stakeholder engagement, performance evaluation, internal audits, management reviews, and continual improvement initiatives.

Throughout the audit, various offices and academic units demonstrated how quality principles are integrated into their daily operations. Classroom observations, process evaluations, document reviews, and interviews with personnel provided evidence of the University’s commitment to learner-centered education, operational excellence, and stakeholder satisfaction.

The successful outcome of the surveillance audit reflects the collective efforts of SMU administrators, faculty members, staff, and students in sustaining a culture of quality and excellence. It also validates the effectiveness of the University’s systems in supporting its mission of providing transformative and responsive education.

University President Dr. John Octavious S. Palina, expressed gratitude to the entire SMU community for their dedication and cooperation throughout the audit process, stating,

“It is encouraging to see that we are steadily adopting a management system that closely mirrors our day-to-day operations – this is the Educational Organization Management System. Please remember that we undergo this process not just for compliance, but to fulfill our core mission for our stakeholders”

As SMU continues to implement its Strategic Plan 2025–2030, the University remains committed to strengthening its EOMS, enhancing learner outcomes, and fostering innovation, sustainability, and institutional excellence.

The successful surveillance audit marks another significant milestone in SMU’s quality journey following its initial ISO 21001:2018 certification and reinforces its position as a leading educational institution dedicated to communion, excellence, innovation, and social responsibility.