UCU, US universities sign MoU to boost STEM education

In a significant step towards advancing science, technology, and mathematics (STEM) education, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Urdaneta City University and Santa Fe College (SFC) with other universities from the United States on July 28, 2023 at the University Audio-visual Room.

The agreement aims to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, paving the way for innovative programs and research opportunities. One of these programs, which commenced last April, is the engineering preparatory course titled STEMTank.

The MoU was signed during a virtual ceremony attended by representatives from both nations. Among them are Santa Fe College (SFC)  and Florida State University (SFC) with a special participation of the Fulbright Commission. Dr. Amihan April Alcazar, UCU Acting University President, and Dr. Paul Broadie, SFC President, led the MoU signing ceremony, sealing the official partnership in conducting various academic and institutional endeavors.

“It would not have been possible to have this memorandum of agreement without the initiative that started by the US Department of State and the Community College Administrators Program. From now on, we will look forward to more collaborations with other US educational institutions,” said Dr. Alcazar.

Also present in the MoU signing were Dr. Vilma Fuentes, SFC Assistant VP for Academic Affairs, and Dr. Christine Mokhter, Fulbright Visiting Professor, who showed their support and commitment in said endeavor. Dr. Fuentes spoke about the role of engineering in finding practical solutions to real-world problems especially in the face of natural disasters.

“There’s a lot that Filipinos and Americans have in common, especially in terms of calamity. We have hurricanes and you have typhoons. Our students and your students will learn about the natural events that occur in each other’s countries and come up with practical solutions that can help people be more resilient. It could mean how we can redesign people’s houses, it could mean how we can redesign our shelters so when people are forced to evacuate their homes they can go to a safer place,” Dr. Fuentes said.

The signing of this MoU reflects a shared commitment to promoting international cooperation and fostering global citizenship in the pursuit of knowledge and scientific breakthroughs. As the partnership gains momentum, it is anticipated to not only benefit the academic institutions involved but also contribute to the advancement of society as a whole through innovations in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.