During the 9th Annual Eurasia Higher Education Summit in Istanbul, Turkey, the Philippines, represented by CHED Chairman Prospero De Vera, expressed its intention to engage in academic collaboration with Turkish universities. This move aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s directive to enhance the quality of higher education in the Philippines, specifically in agriculture, medicine, health allied sciences, and science and technology. De Vera emphasized the importance of creating international learning environments to keep Philippine Higher Education Institutions competitive globally.
At the summit, De Vera underscored the Turkish government's involvement in the peace process in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). He highlighted the potential for bilateral partnerships, especially in areas of mutual interest. The collaboration aims to bridge institutions from different cultural backgrounds, fostering cooperative programs and contributing to internationalizing Philippine education.
The emphasis on science, technology, agriculture, medicine, and university-industry linkages has been crucial in De Vera's call to strengthen ties with Turkey. The initiative aims to enhance the Philippine higher education sector, inviting collaboration with delegates from other countries. This approach seeks to address limiting factors affecting marginalized groups globally.
The collaboration aligns with the impact of internationalization on Philippine higher education, contributing to research projects aligned with the National Higher Education Research Agenda (NHERA-2). It signifies a commitment to strengthening international ties, promoting academic excellence, and enhancing the global competitiveness of Philippine graduates.
Beyond opening avenues for academic exchange, the initiative fosters understanding of diverse cultures among students and faculty from both countries. The collaborations are expected to yield benefits such as enhanced research capabilities, innovative educational programs, and a stronger global presence for Philippine higher education. The move towards internationalization underscores a commitment to elevating the quality of higher education in the Philippines through strategic partnerships.
