Western Philippines University (WPU), through the Internationalization and External Affairs Office, proudly welcomed esteemed delegates from Universitas Ahmad Dahlan-Indonesia (UAD) from February 24 to 26, 2025. This visit marked a significant step toward strengthening collaboration and expanding global partnerships in academic, research, and sustainability endeavors.
One of the event’s highlights was formalizing institutional ties between WPU and UAD through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing at the WPU-Puerto Princesa Campus on February 24, 2025. WPU President Dr. Amabel S. Liao, alongside the vice presidents and other unit heads, graced the ceremony. This agreement paves the way for deeper cooperation in research, academic exchanges, and joint initiatives between both universities. Following the ceremony, the UAD delegation, led by Prof. Dr. Dwi Sulisworo, UAD Executive Chairperson, engaged in a collaborative meeting with WPU’s college deans, program chairs, and selected office heads to explore prospective projects.
WPU and UAD also participated in an insightful seminar and colloquium that fostered knowledge sharing and academic discussions. Prof. Dr. Siti Mahsanah Budijati presented “UAD Initiatives on E-Waste Management” to an audience of faculty, staff, and students. Her impactful discussion on sustainable solutions for electronic waste and responsible consumption aimed to raise awareness and inspire action toward environmental sustainability. The WPU CAFES’ Department of Forestry and Environmental Science co-hosted the event.
Following the seminar, a ‘Joint Colloquium’ provided a platform for postgraduate study candidates from UAD to present their research alongside WPU faculty members. Discussions covered diverse topics, including Indonesia’s transformative education efforts and WPU’s research initiatives in Palawan. The colloquium was conducted in partnership with the WPU College of Arts and Sciences.
Beyond academic engagements, WPU showcased Palawan’s beauty and heritage through a cultural tour, offering Indonesian guests an opportunity to experience the richness of local traditions and natural wonders. This immersive experience underscored WPU’s commitment to cultural exchange as an integral part of international partnerships. The delegates also visited key university initiatives, including the GemPhil Project, which aims to map the genetic resources of freshwater prawn populations in the Philippines.
Universitas Ahmad Dahlan (UAD) is a distinguished private university in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. It is known for its strong commitment to academic excellence, research, and community engagement. Rooted in Islamic values, UAD offers a diverse range of programs in science, technology, humanities, and social sciences. It is recognized for its innovative approaches to education, sustainability initiatives, and active participation in global academic collaborations.
[This article is in line with the SDGs 4, 8, 10, 11, & 17]