Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) and West Visayas State University (WVSU) have recently solidified their commitment to academic excellence and research innovation through the signing of a Letter of Collaboration (LoC). This partnership, aimed at fostering collaborative efforts between UTM’s Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities (FSSH) and WVSU, marks a significant milestone in the relationship between the two institutions.
The signing ceremony, which took place at the UTMSPACE BOD Meeting Room in Residensi UTM Kuala Lumpur, was attended by key representatives from both UTM and WVSU. Prof. Dr. Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic & International) of UTM, and Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, SUC President IV of WVSU, exchanged signatures to formalize the collaboration. The event was also graced by other esteemed individuals, including Prof. Ts. Dr. Abd Latif Saleh, Pro-Vice-Chancellor of UTM Kuala Lumpur Campus, and Dr. Greta G. Gabinete, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension of WVSU.
The partnership between UTM and WVSU aims to enhance academic growth and research initiatives through various collaborative strategies. Dr. Kew Si Na, Senior Lecturer of Language Academy at FSSH, UTM Johor Bahru, and Dr. Elias C. Olapane, Head of Campus Research, Innovation, and Development at WVSU Calinog Campus, played instrumental roles in facilitating this collaboration. Their dedication to fostering international cooperation has paved the way for future joint ventures between the two universities.
During a post-signing discussion led by Prof. Dr. Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim, both institutions explored potential collaborative opportunities, including matching grants, academic programs, student and lecturer mobility programs, and more. These initiatives are designed to enhance the academic and research capabilities of both UTM and WVSU. President Villaruz expressed his gratitude and optimism for the future successes of this partnership, highlighting the mutual benefits that both universities stand to gain.
The successful signing of the LoC signifies a strong commitment to academic excellence and research innovation from both UTM and WVSU. Plans are already in motion to further strengthen this collaboration through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in the near future. This partnership not only fosters academic growth and research innovation but also promotes cultural exchange and mutual understanding between UTM and WVSU.
In conclusion, the collaboration between UTM and WVSU represents a significant step towards fostering international cooperation in academia. By leveraging each other’s strengths and resources, both institutions are poised to achieve greater heights in academic excellence and research innovation. The LoC signing ceremony serves as a testament to the shared commitment of UTM and WVSU towards advancing knowledge and creating a positive impact in their respective communities.