In another stride toward expanding its internationalization goals, Biliran Province State University recently hosted Dr. Robert Kemerait, an expert in Plant Pathology and Agricultural Extension from the University of Georgia (UGA). 

Dr. Kemarait visited BiPSU from October 21-24, engaging with university officials, faculty, students, and local farmers to explore potential collaborations aimed at enhancing educational and academic exchanges between the two institutions.

The visit marked the first formal engagement between UGA and BiPSU. Dr. Kemerait's expertise in agricultural studies opened avenues for BiPSU's School of Agri-Fisheries to tap into international networks for its programs.

During a courtesy call to BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed, which outlined the foundation for a possible academic partnership between the two universities. Dr. Kemarait will bring the signed MOA back to UGA, where he will present the case for collaboration and discuss the mutual benefits for both institutions.

With the MOU, both parties will make reasonable efforts to encourage direct contact and research cooperation between their faculty members, department, and research and extension institutes. Specifically, the partnership would enable both universities to conduct joint conferences, extension, and research activities; exchange of academic materials and academic publications, faculty members, and students; and capacity building programs.

In his message, Dr. Cañezo underscored the significance of the potential collaboration, emphasizing that it aligns with the university’s goal of providing students with a world-class education.

“We are constantly seeking ways to improve our programs and offer our students exposure to international expertise,” Dr. Cañezo said. “This partnership will open doors not just for academic growth, but also for future research and exchange opportunities.”

Meanwhile, Dr. Kemerait praised BiPSU’s leadership under Dr. Cañezo and commended the university for its forward-thinking approach, specifically in tapping other institutions to partner for the improvement of its services. 

“I’m grateful for your leadership and for this opportunity and I think it reflects extremely well in your faculty,” the UGA professor said. “If you have the faculty who facilitate and have the vision for potential collaboration, it makes all the difference.”

He highlighted the mutual benefits of the shared research, faculty exchanges, and joint projects that could emerge from a formal partnership.

Dr. Kemerait also revealed that if the partnership will push through, BiPSU will be the fourth institution in the country to have collaboration with the AGU, along with three universities in Northern Luzon.

The University of Georgia, founded in 1785, is a public research university and the state's flagship institution. Located in Athens, Georgia, UGA offers over 170 degree programs through its 18 schools and colleges. UGA is ranked among the top 20 public universities in the US and is known for strong programs in business, engineering, veterinary medicine, and public health.

#WoWBiPSU

[The article aligns with Sustainable Development Goals No: 4 (Quality Education) and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).]