SorSU forges global academic cooperation with Kyungdong University Global (KDU), South Korea — seals MOA on faculty/student exchange program, research collaborations; inks MOU on faculty & student developments, other academic & scholarly activities
As part of the proactive undertakings of the University to continually raise the bar of quality education and academic excellence toward global standards both for its SorSUeno students and faculty members, Sorsogon State University (SorSU), under the leadership of SUC President III, Dr. Geraldine F. De Jesus, formally inked Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) and Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Kyungdong University Global (KDU), South Korea through a virtual ceremonial signing via Zoom Meeting, held today February 15, 2024.
Through the active involvement of the SorSU International Relations Office (IRO), headed by its Director, Dr. Vivien L. Chua, the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between SorSU and KDU exhibits global academic partnership on the exchange of students, exchange of faculty and researchers on research collaboration, as well as joint research and resources sharing.
Meanwhile, the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) demonstrates shared international cooperation, encompassing KDU’s Vision and Mission and SorSU’s Global Education program, particularly on the promotion of faculty and student development as well as other academic and scholarly activities, which involves:
- Student and/or academic and administrative staff exchanges;
- Development of joint degree and double degree programs;
- Visiting Professors/Lecturers;
- Exchange of academic information and publications and library resource materials information;
- Joint research collaborations and organization of an international research conference, research projects/activities;
- Support of student scholarships, internships, field studies;
- Other partnership areas agreed upon by both parties
Kyungdong University Global (KDU), located in Gangwondo, South Korea, is one of the leading private Korean universities in international education and is known as one of the top-notch institutions in its employment ratings of graduates.
During the ceremonial MOA/MOU signing program, Dr. Jhonner D. Ricafort (SorSU Vice President for Academic Affairs), in his welcome remarks, emphasized that the momentous occasion marked the beginning of a joint partnership that will undoubtedly enrich the University’s academic and scholarly projects and activities.
Through these collaborative efforts, we aim to foster a spirit of global citizenship, expand academic horizons, and provide enriching opportunities for our students and faculty… We are confident that this partnership will build a social response, benefiting both our institutions and the broader academic community. This partnership demonstrates our shared commitment to excellence in education and scholarship endeavors. We believe that this academic cooperation can lead to significant advancements in college, research, and human development, contributing to global progress and understanding.
Meanwhile, SUC President III, Dr. Geraldine F. De Jesus, likewise extended her sincere gratitude to Dr. John Lee (President, KDU), Dr. Ahmed Absi (Dean, Faculty of International Studies, and the entire Kyungdong University Global for engaging in a commitment with SorSU, highlighting that the University has actively and continually searched for foreign institutions and companies that will support its curriculum and faculty development, research capabilities, and student internship program, among others.
“After more than a century has transpired, the Sorsogon State University has expanded and continually enhancing its initial mandate of technical training to include multidisciplinary curricular offerings plus quality research and extension capabilities to be at par with the best in the Philippines and the Southeast Asian region… Thus, we aspire to rise, soar, and be part of the global community, but at the same time, the University is strongly rooted in the native land from where we have originated from.”
“With our partnership, you are helping not only our institution to achieve its internationalization goals but, more important, you are extending the assistance of the South Korean government to the development and progress of the Filipino people. Salamatunon nan Dios Mabalos sa indo gabos!”
Further, Dr. John Lee (President, KDU) also delivered a message, followed by the closing remarks of Dr. Ahmed Absi (Dean, KDU – Faculty of International Studies and Director, Global Academic Collaboration Centers).
SUC President III, Dr. Geraldine F. De Jesus, represented Sorsogon State University, while Dr. John Lee (President, KDU) represented Kyungdong University Global, South Korea, alongside KDU officials. In attendance also at the SorSU Boardroom during the ceremony were Dr. Vivien L. Chua (Director, IRO); Dr. Maria Luisa P. Mirasol (Dean, College of Business and Management); CBM faculty members: Prof. Roman Julio B. Infante (Program Chair, Accountancy), Ms. Aunel D. Dinglasan (Program Chair, Hospitality Management), Ms. Maria Bernadette S. Mirate (Program Chair, Tourism Management), Mr. Novie F. Evasco, Ms. Alyssa Mae H. Atun, Mr. Rommel Gersalia, & Mr. Bryan O. Fruto; Ms. Caryl L. Gamis (IRO Staff); and other SorSU officials & personnel.
The MOU signing was witnessed by Prof. Telesforo D. Escoto (Campus Director, SorSU – Sorsogon City Campus) and Dr. Ahmed Absi (Dean, KDU – Faculty of International Studies and Director, Global Academic Collaboration Centers).
This undertaking not only represents the establishment of the international academic cooperation between SorSU and KDU, South Korea, but also signifies SorSU’s continuous initiatives to strengthen its vision and commitment to developing globally competitive leaders and professionals through the relentless pursuit of internationalization of its academic programs, alignment of curriculum to global standards, as well as consistently seeking and providing opportunities both to its faculty & students to become highly-competitive in globalized community. (SorSU PIO)
