Benguet State University (BSU) and Kochi University (KU) of Japan have affirmed their partnership on various aspects through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The partnership aims to enhance education, innovation, and sustainability that would benefit both universities and respective communities. BSU President Kenneth A. Laruan and KU President Hiroyuki Ukeda led the virtual MOU signing ceremony held on February 18, 2025, witnessed by officials from both institutions.

During the event, Iwasa Kazuyuki, KU’s Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences Dean, shared how the partnership was initiated. He said that the collaboration is a result of KU’s visit to Benguet Province and BSU in March 2024, the 50-year sister Province relationship between KU and Benguet, and the previous educational exchange between KU and BSU.

Kazuyuki emphasized the anticipated impact of the collaboration which includes deeper academic exchange and joint research that tackles serious global and local issues.

“By collaborating, we open the door to a new era,” Kazuyuki said.

In his message, Laruan thanked KU for the initiative and acknowledged its long partnership with the Benguet Province. He emphasized the significance of establishing international linkages in BSU’s SUC leveling, global rankings, and fulfillment of the BSU’s mandate of providing research and extension services or community involvement.

“As we move forward, we are hoping that this partnership will bloom and will lead to the economic and socio-economic development in the province of Benguet and BSU, with your support,” he expressed.

Ukeda said this MOU is a significant step towards building a stronger partnership between the two universities, acknowledging the importance of building a multicultural and inclusive society.

“To realize a future multicultural society, I believe KU has a vital role to play. We aim to increase the number of international students to 20 percent and foster an environment where all stakeholders can learn from each other. This goal can be achieved through partnership with esteemed institutions like yours,” he said and expressed appreciation to everyone who has contributed to making the partnership a reality.

In the MOU, the partnership agreement focuses on academics, culture, skills training, research agenda, or other collaborative areas. Specifically, BSU and KU will partner in the conduct of faculty, staff, and student exchanges, share resources on scientific materials, publications, and other information, and work together on research, lectures, and symposia.//EBawayan