Walailak University, Nakhonsrithammarat, Thailand — Sultan Kudarat State University (SKSU) has taken another significant step toward strengthening its international academic collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Walailak University (WU), one of Thailand’s leading institutions known for its world-class facilities and cutting-edge research. The MOU signing, which took place on September 13, 2024, signals the beginning of a dynamic partnership focused on faculty and student exchanges, joint research projects, curriculum development, and capacity-building initiatives.
The ceremony was held at Walailak University’s stunning hospital, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and renowned for its state-of-the-art medical, engineering, and agricultural facilities. Attending the event were SKSU officials led by its OIC President, Dr. Jesusa D. Ortuoste, alongside representatives from Walailak University headed by President Professor Doctor Sombat Thamrongthanyawong. “Through this MOU, we open doors to new opportunities for growth, knowledge exchange, and development in both our institutions,” said OIC President Ortuoste.
The MOU sets the stage for a partnership aimed at broadening SKSU’s international and national linkages, while providing its students and faculty with opportunities for professional growth and collaborative research, particularly in the fields of medical technology, nursing, engineering, agriculture, and language and general education. Dr. Ortuoste emphasized the significance of this partnership in enhancing SKSU’s global competitiveness.
Before and after the MOU signing, the SKSU delegation engaged in extensive benchmarking activities across Walailak University’s state-of-the-art medical, engineering, agricultural facilities, and language education research from September 12 to 13. The delegation, toured Walailak’s internationally acclaimed hospital, medical technology and nursing laboratories, research centers, and agricultural technology hubs. They were particularly impressed by the advanced medical equipment and the comprehensive research programs in areas such as health sciences, engineering, and language studies. SKSU representatives engaged in in-depth discussions with WU faculty about curriculum development, innovative teaching practices, and the potential for future collaborative projects that could benefit both institutions. This successful MOU signing and benchmarking activities ended with a tour around WU’s parks and a city tour.
Walailak University, which boasts a world-class reputation for both its research university and its breathtaking campus, is eager to foster collaboration with SKSU, seeing it as a strategic partner in the Southeast Asian region. As the partnership between SKSU and Walailak University begins to take shape, both institutions are committed to working closely on projects that will benefit students, faculty, and researchers. This collaboration marks a new era of internationalization for SKSU and promises to bring innovative ideas and enhanced educational practices to both universities.
All these are a testament to SKSU’s vision of fostering global connections and ensuring its place among the top universities in the Philippines and the region.
