Mariano Marcos
State University

University of Saskatchewan eyes more research collaboration with MMSU

By Jedd Bryant Boado

The University of Saskatchewan (USask) in Canada has renewed its partnership with Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) for another five years. The renewed Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), signed on February 24 at the Makati Diamond Residences, aims to strengthen research collaborations. 

Signed by MMSU President Virgilio Julius P. Manzano, Jr., and USask Interim Provost and Vice President Academic Patti McDougall, the agreement aims to strengthen collaboration between the two institutions in the fields of indigenous knowledge in agriculture, health sciences, environment and natural resources, engineering, and renewable energy. The signing was witnessed by MMSU Extension Director Marlowe Aquino and Hon. Ken Cheveldayoff, Minister of Advanced Education of the Government of Saskatchewan. 

Apart from joint research, USask and MMSU also intend to open opportunities for exchange programs and internships for students, faculty, and staff; the development and introduction of new curricula; the exchange of publications and training materials; and the development of a joint academic program. 

In his speech, MMSU President Virgilio Julius P. Manzano, Jr. thanked USask and the Canadian government for their cooperation when it comes to the research and extension initiatives of MMSU.

“We thank the government of Canada and the University of Saskatchewan for their continued support of MMSU’s internationalization efforts, and more importantly, in helping us ensure that research benefits our communities,” Dr. Manzano said.

In his speech, Hon. Cheveldayoff noted that the event was not merely the signing of agreements. Rather, it is giving partner institutions like MMSU a chance to engage with experts in Saskatchewan universities like USask.

“These agreements will expand opportunities for students, faculty, and researchers, supporting collaborations in key areas like healthcare, agriculture, and science,” Hon. Cheveldayoff said.

Also in attendance were the officials from the Canadian government and the province of Saskatchewan, namely the Ambassador of Canada to the Philippines, Hon. David Hartman, and Managing Director of the Government of Saskatchewan Singapore Office, Dr. Greg Eidsness.

In his speech, Amb. Hartman stressed the importance of institutional cooperation between Canada and the Philippines when it comes to developing new and meaningful technologies.

“When institutions meet in person, exchange ideas, and build trust, they open doors to long-term cooperation and innovation,” Amb. Hartman said.

For the Ministry of Advanced Education, present were Chief of Staff Mr. Kenneth Cotteril, Deputy Minister Louise Michaud, and Executive Director of International Education Ms. Anna Robinson.

Saskatchewan institutions and their officials were also present during the event. On the part of the University of Regina, these include President and Vice Chancellor Jeff Keshen and Associate Vice President International Haroon Chaundry. Meanwhile, for Saskatchewan Polytechnic, they were President Larry Rosia and Associate Vice President International Thevi Pather.

The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing, co-organized by the Embassy of Canada to the Philippines and the Government of Saskatchewan, is part of MMSU’s effort to enhance international collaboration in instruction, research, and extension activities.