The Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN), led by Chancellor Elnor C. Roa, recently conducted a productive visit to the National Taiwan Ocean University (NTOU), widely known as the “university by the bay.” The MSUN team included Prof. Renoir A. Abrea, Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension, Prof. Arleen B. Uy, Vice Chancellor for Planning and Development, Dr. Rey Y. Capangpangan, Director for International Affairs and Linkages, Dr. Anabelle Dece A. Espadero, Secretary for the Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension, and Faculty Researchers Dr. Fernand F. Fagutao and Fstr. Sherley Ann Inocente.

The timing of their visit proved fortuitous as the days of persistent rain in Taiwan gave way to sunny weather, setting an optimistic tone for the meetings ahead. The NTOU team, led by Vice President Cheng-Yu Ku, extended their warm hospitality to the MSUN delegation, accompanied by esteemed professors from the Institute of Marine Environment and Ecology.

The meeting commenced with comprehensive introductions from both universities. Chancellor Roa and Vice President Ku delivered opening remarks, expressing mutual enthusiasm for future collaborations. The session highlighted the numerous commonalities between the two institutions, laying a strong foundation for potential joint initiatives.

A notable moment in the meeting was the address by Ms. Mariche Natividad, an MSUN alumna and current PhD student at NTOU. Ms. Natividad shared her enriching experiences at NTOU, emphasizing the plethora of opportunities available to MSUN students through such international linkages. She also expressed gratitude to her alma mater, acknowledging how her undergraduate training at MSUN had prepared her for the academic challenges and opportunities she encountered at NTOU.

Key points of discussion included proposals for faculty and student exchange programs, the development of dual-degree programs, collaborative research projects, and scholarships for graduate students. The MSUN team was given a comprehensive tour of NTOU’s state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities, further showcasing the potential for meaningful collaboration.

The visit concluded on a high note, with both parties agreeing to formalize their partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to be signed in the third quarter of 2024. This successful visit marks the beginning of a promising partnership aimed at enhancing academic and research capabilities at both institutions.