Niigata University (NU) of Niigata Prefecture, Japan has forged a partnership with Ifugao State University (IFSU) to promote collaboration in education, research, and other related fields starting this year.
The partnership was formalized through the signing of the memorandum of understanding between NU President Tatsue Ushiki and IFSU President Eva Marie Codamon-Dugyon in a virtual ceremony held June 21.
In the MOU, officials of NU and IFSU committed to enhancing the mutual introduction of the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) regions in Sado and Ifugao, exchange of researchers by holding joint seminars, etc.; joint implementation of educational programs; among others.
Ushiki looks forward that the partnership will foster friendship between the two universities.
Dugyon, on the other hand, expressed delight in the new partnership with an offshore school. “As a university that envisions excellence amidst rich cultural heritage, IFSU remains true to its commitment to strong research leadership and culture to intensify the conservation of the rich cultural heritage”.
Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Kazuhiko Koshikawa represented by Tachikawa Jumpei, First Secretary of the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines, lauded the two universities and hoped that their pact will inspire actions toward sustainable conservation of GIAHS sites.
In the virtual ceremony, attendees from NU were Koji Nakamura, adviser of Ifugao Satoyama Meister Training Program (ISTMP); professors Hisashi Nagata and Mitsoyo Toyoda of Sado Island Center for Ecological Sustainability; and Akemi Hirayama Aiko Kita of NU International Affairs Office.
IFSU attendees were Judy C. Baggo, director Department of GIAHS Center; Richard D. Baliao, director of Communication, Public and International Affairs (DCPIA); Clyde Sam B. Pumihic, program coordinator of ISMTP under GIAHS Center; and Shaime Faith B. Latap, international relations officer under DCPIA.
Established in May 1949, NU is a national university with autonomy and creativity as its philosophy. It strives to equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to address unforeseen future issues and promote state-of-the-art research in conventional research fields. – Press release
