In a joint effort to promote global cooperation and encourage youth to take part in international climate initiatives, Sorsogon State University (SorSU), through the Office of Extension and Training Services (OET), and Khayah International, held an Expository Exchange and Cultural Collaboration along with a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing ceremony on August 19, 2025, at the SorSU covered court, Sorsogon City.
The event commenced with opening remarks from Dr. Ryan V. Dio (Vice President for Research, Extension and Training). This was followed by a program overview delivered by Ms. Cho Sanghee (Project Manager, Khayah International).
The main part of the event was the formal signing of the MOU, establishing a strategic partnership between SorSU and Khayah International. SUC President III, Dr. Geraldine F. De Jesus, signed on behalf of Sorsogon State University, and Mr. Park Jihwan, signed for Khayah International. The MOU outlines joint initiatives and capacity-building efforts on climate resilience and international collaboration.
In her message, President De Jesus stated, “If we have to attain progress, we have to make strong connections with other people and institutions. That is what we are doing now in our university, fast-paced efforts in internationalization, particularly in transnational mobility and knowledge sharing. She also said, “In the future, the gates of our university will always remain open to South Korean volunteers who wish to visit and collaborate with us.”
Further, Dr. Vivien L. Chua (Director, International Relations Office) delivered a message emphasizing the university’s ongoing commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. She highlighted the importance of the signed partnership, describing it as “a bridge that connects cultures, resources, and aspirations with a noble purpose of uplifting the lives of those we serve.”
The signing of the MOU supports SorSU’s goal of expanding its global connections and empowering young people through collaboration. The event officially concluded with a tree-planting ceremony as a symbolic gesture of the partnership between SorSU and Khayah International.
Present during the event were Dr. Ana Cristina G. Fortes (Director, OET), Prof. Mary Rose B. Lacdang (NSTP Director), and the OET team. (SorSU PIO)
