By Czarina Berlynn Donne Agustin

After a successful discussion for collaborative programs yesterday, Mariano Marcos State University and Philippine CJC Association for Friendship and Education Promotion (AFEP), an independent Chinese organization, officially entered into a Memorandum of Understanding today, June 22 - officially establishing a potentially productive partnership.

Formalizing agreements on academic exchanges, MMSU President Shirley C. Agrupis and AFEP Chief of Staff Mr. Andy Gui signed an MOU that pushes for the implementation of various academic activities.

Reflected in the MOU are the mutually-agreed plans for internship opportunities for MMSU students in China, free cultural and educational trainings and professional trainings, and study abroad programs open for both Chinese and MMSU faculty.

Dr. Agrupis and Mr. Gui both expressed their strong commitment to carry out the partnership and assured to actively communicate with each other to achieve their goals of promoting friendly education and mutual benefit.

Present in the signing were Internationalization, Linkages, & Partnership Director Mee Jay A. Domingo, Admissions Chief Annjeannette Alain D. Galang, Alumni Relations Chief Krismary Sharmaine D. Yapo, and Executive Assistant to the President Atty. Cheska Arla C, Agrupis.

The international partnership is a result of the aggressive efforts of the university to strengthen its international competency and presence as a global institution. (JVBT/HLY,StratCom)