From October 22 to 25, 2024, a delegation from the Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT), led by President Dr. Renato G. Reyes, undertook a productive visit to Indonesia. The primary focus was to establish educational partnerships and explore sustainable agricultural practices, reinforcing ASCOT’s commitment to international collaboration and enhancing global education opportunities for its students.The trip began at the Southeast Asian Regional Centre for Tropical Biology (SEAMEO Biotrop), Bogor, Indonesia, where the delegation engaged with local officials and explored model farms showcasing innovative agricultural techniques. This visit provided valuable insights into sustainable farming methods that ASCOT could adapt for local implementation.
Following SEAMEO Biotrop, the delegation proceeded to Institut Pertanian Bogor (IPB) University. They were warmly welcomed by Rector Prof. Dr. Arif Satria and other officials, where they discussed potential collaborations in joint research projects and student exchanges. A significant highlight was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between ASCOT and IPB University, aimed at fostering academic partnerships in marine and fisheries science.
The delegation also attended Inflection 2024, an international conference on the blue economy held from October 23 to 24. During this conference, ASCOT representatives engaged in discussions on sustainable ocean resource management. Additionally, Vice President for Administration, Planning, and Finance, Engr. Oscar C. Barawid, PhD, and Legal Unit Head Atty. Karl Thomas M. Olivar played key roles as moderators for various sessions, showcasing ASCOT’s dedication to participating in global discussions.
The ASCOT team further toured the IPB Agriculture and Technology Park and the Graduate School of IPB Bogor Agricultural University, gaining insights into advanced agricultural technologies and exploring collaborative research initiatives.
The trip concluded with a meeting at the Philippine Embassy in Jakarta, where the delegation met with Ambassador Gina A. Jamoralin, further strengthening diplomatic ties and highlighting ASCOT’s role in international education.
It is worth noting that the entire trip, including airfare, accommodation, and meals, was funded out of the delegates’ pockets, showcasing their dedication to ASCOT’s internationalization efforts.
The delegation comprised key officials, including:
Dr. Oscar C. Barawid – Vice President for Administration, Planning, and Finance; Joseph T. Gonzales – Board Secretary and Director of the International, External, and Alumni Services Office; Atty. Karl Thomas M. Olivar – Legal Unit Head; Mardelyn B. Barrogo – College Librarian; Norma T. Barbasa – Director of NSTP; Dr. Alma S. Bayudan – Director of Student Affairs; Chrystal Faye V. Salazar – Budget Unit Head; For. Kristine Joy M. Frago-Galam – Quality Assurance Office Head; and Jawnelle O. Baldonade- SCSC President.
This visit not only advanced ASCOT’s mission of fostering global partnerships but also supported the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.