USM Faculty Members Secure International Research Grant for Project on Student Health and Well-Being

Faculty members of the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) have secured the 2026 Dr. Thomas L. McKenzie Faculty Research Grant from the International Organization for Health, Sports, and Kinesiology (IOHSK) for their proposed research project focusing on student health and well-being. The grant provides a total funding support of Php 200,000 for the implementation of the study.

The Dr. Thomas L. McKenzie Faculty Research Grant is one of IOHSK’s most recognized funding programs, supported by internationally distinguished scholar and Lifetime Honorary President Dr. Thomas L. McKenzie.

The funded project, titled “Project BIO-ACTIVE: Body Composition, Physical Activity, and Psychological Well-Being Among University Students Toward Evidence-Based Wellness Interventions,” is led by Dr. Ruben L. Tagare, Jr. of USM, in collaboration with Dr. Hosung So of California State University, San Bernardino, along with USM faculty members Dr. Jomar B. Esto, Assistant Professor Cheeze R. Janito, and Assistant Professor Vinus P. Java. This cross-national collaboration underscores USM’s growing presence in global research partnerships.

The project aims to examine the relationships among body composition, physical activity, and psychological well-being among university students using a biopsychosocial framework. Specifically, the study will investigate how physical activity influences psychological well-being and whether body composition plays a role in shaping this relationship.

Findings from the study are expected to generate valuable insights that can guide universities in designing evidence-based wellness programs, including structured physical activity initiatives, body composition monitoring, and mental health promotion strategies for students.

Through this achievement, USM continues to strengthen its research capability and expand its global academic collaborations, reinforcing its commitment to advancing knowledge and contributing to student wellness and development through evidence-based research initiatives.