Tripartite MOU signing between Baguio Central University (Baguio City, Philippines), aSSIST University (Korea), and the SDG School of Management (Geneva).

On September 25, 2024, during the second day of the prestigious World University Rankings for Innovation Global Conference (WGC24) in Seoul, Korea, Baguio Central University (BCU) achieved a significant milestone in its internationalization efforts. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was formalized between BCU, aSSIST University in Seoul, and the SDG School of Management in Geneva, cementing a partnership that will foster global academic collaboration. This landmark agreement was signed by esteemed representatives: Dr. Hwy-Chang Moon, President of aSSIST University; Dr. Yong-Joo Choi, Rector of the SDG Management School, Dr. Genevieve B. Kupang, Dean of the Graduate School, and Mr. Karl Matthieu Rillera, Marketing Officer of BCU.

Geneva SDG School of Management (SSM) Rector, Dr. Yongjoo Stephen Choi, signs the MOU, marking a significant step towards international collaboration. He emphasized the importance of SSM’s partnership with Southeast Asian countries like the Philippines.

The signing of this MOU solidifies the partnership among these institutions, which share a commitment to fostering community engagement, research, and educational excellence. The partnership will ultimately benefit stakeholders across all involved institutions. The agreement aligns seamlessly with the global movement toward internationalization in higher education, a key priority for the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in the Philippines and a growing focus for academic institutions worldwide. As CHED advocates, internationalization ensures that Filipino universities remain competitive and globally relevant, facilitating cultural exchange, the sharing of best practices, and among others across borders. Through initiatives like this MOU, higher education institutions can assist stakeholders to thrive in an interconnected world, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and perspectives needed to navigate the complexities of the global landscape.

aSSIST University President, Dr. Hwy-chang Moon signs the MOU.

Internationalization in Higher Education: A Global Imperative

 The Commission on Higher Education of the Philippines has advocated for the internationalization of higher education, emphasizing the need for universities to engage with global partners in order to enhance the quality of education, research, and community extension services. By entering into MOUs with international institutions, Philippine universities like BCU align themselves with global standards, ensuring that students, faculty, administrators and researchers are equipped with the skills, practices and knowledge needed to thrive sustainably.

BCU’s Dean of the Graduate School, Dr. Genevieve Kupang, signs the MOU with Marketing Officer Mr. Karl Rillera as a witness, marking a moment in BCU’s international collaborations.

Internationalization provides a platform for exchanging innovative ideas, best practices, and cutting-edge research, which in turn enriches the academic environment and boosts the institution’s reputation. CHED’s support for such endeavors is grounded in the belief that higher education institutions must transcend national borders to provide students with a holistic and globally relevant education. This aligns seamlessly with BCU’s vision to be a transformative institution that fosters innovation and excellence across a global academic landscape.

Mr. Karl Rillera shares his positive insights and expectations for the opportunities presented by the MOU.

The Areas of Collaboration

Higher education institutions (HEIs) around the world are increasingly engaging in MOUs with partner institutions to foster academic growth and stay relevant in the global education market. These agreements are vital for several reasons: 1) Enhancing Educational Quality: MOUs allow universities to pool their intellectual and physical resources, enabling them to offer more comprehensive programs and services. By collaborating with global partners, HEIs can enhance their curricula, integrate diverse perspectives, and expose students to cutting-edge research and best practices from around the world. 2) Boosting Research Capabilities: Collaborative research initiatives between institutions lead to groundbreaking discoveries that may not be possible within a single institution. Through shared knowledge and resources, universities can tackle complex global challenges such as climate change, poverty, and technological innovation. 3) Cultural Exchange and Global Competence: Universities must prepare students to navigate diverse cultural contexts. MOUs facilitate cultural exchange through student and faculty mobility, enriching the educational experience and promoting global citizenship. 4) Strengthening Institutional Reputation: MOUs with institutions enhance a university’s global standing, attracting students, faculty, and researchers. These partnerships also demonstrate a commitment to staying relevant and competitive in the rapidly evolving higher education landscape.

Dr. Hwy-chang Moon briefs the Baguio Central University representatives on the conditions of the MOU. In attendance, along with the BCU partners, were two additional faculty members (Bo-Young Kim) from aSSIST University.

The MOU between Baguio Central University, aSSIST University, and SDG School of Management marks the beginning of a fruitful collaboration that will advance the mission of all three institutions to provide education and research opportunities. As global partners, they will work together to drive innovation, foster academic excellence, and prepare students to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

BCU’s participation in this partnership is not only a testament to its commitment to internationalization but also a reflection of its dedication to shaping the future of higher education. By embracing these global collaborations, BCU is poised to make a lasting impact on the world, empowering its students and faculty to become leaders in their respective fields.

Dr. Genevieve Kupang shares her insights on the possible opportunities created by this MOU for all stakeholders involved.

On the final day of the conference, Mr. Karl Rillera and Dr. Genevieve Kupang proudly display the BCU flag as they pose for a memorable photo with aSSIST University President, Dr. Hwy-chang Moon, celebrating the spirit of friendship and partnership.

At the heart of the partnership is Dr. Dong-Sung Cho, WURI Founder—where vision converges with innovation. In this moment, Dr. Genevieve Kupang engages in a meaningful exchange of ideas with the visionary founder.

Rillera and Kupang proudly display the BCU flag, positioned between the flags of South Korea and aSSIST University, symbolizing international partnership.