Tarlac State University formally sealed a memorandum of understanding and an agreement on exchange with the National Taipei University (NTPU) to promote research collaboration and academic partnership earlier today (September 12) via Microsoft Teams.
Initiated by the Office of University Research and Development, the signing ceremony emphasized the two institutions' dedication to enhancing academic and research endeavors, particularly on the development of joint academic degree programs and research initiatives, student and faculty exchanges, organization of seminars, conferences, and workshops, exchange of educational materials and publications in fields of interest of both parties, creation of short-term and summer programs, and development of double diploma programs and intensive courses.
OURD Director Dr. Robert V. Marcos underscored the importance of organizing conferences as part of this alliance.
"This prioritization of collaboration includes a conference which we see as an opportunity for the researchers – for our researchers to comprehensively learn from each other in the hope of coming up with impactful outcomes on people's lives in our common advocacy in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals," Dr. Marcos said.
Moreover, TSU President Dr. Arnold E. Velasco thanked NTPU and affirmed the university's commitment and purpose to share collaborative research, academic materials, and other activities.
He also pledged to ensure the collaboration's success by combining knowledge and perspectives to enhance the expertise of both institutions significantly.
"This partnership lets us continue working together for more significant, purposeful, and impactful programs and activities. We can keep making a difference in our communities with the projects and initiatives we intend to undertake jointly," Pres. Velasco added.
Likewise, NTPU President Dr. Chen-Jai Lee also expressed his commitment to providing a venue of opportunity for both institutions. He also wishes for a successful linkage and friendship between TSU and NTPU.
"I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and look forward to wonderful opportunities established with (you)," Dr. Lee said.
Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Agnes M. Macaraeg shared the same sentiments, noting that this signing ceremony is just the beginning of a long-lasting relationship.
TSU is the second partner university of NTPU, Taiwan's prominent national university, in the Philippines.
The five-year agreement came into fruition following the discussions between TSU and NTPU during the four-day visit of the TSU delegates to several Taiwanese universities from April 23 to 29, 2023. The discussions explored various avenues for collaboration, including short-term courses, faculty exchanges, small-scale research projects, and joint research efforts. (jlmm-OPA)
