By Karren Jay G. Asgar
University President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy delivered his inspirational message during the online launch of the international research collaboration between Central Philippine University and Tra Vinh University.
The official launch of the international research collaboration between Central Philippine University and Tra Vinh University took place at the Henry Luce III Library Conference Hall on July 31, 2024.
Together with representatives from Tra Vinh University who were present via online platform, the said launch of research projects for the school year 2024-2025 tackled the theme, “Inspire the Teacher, Unleash the Researcher.”
The event began with an invocation led by Rev. Dr. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, followed by the singing of the national anthems of the Philippines and Vietnam, respectively. CPU Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Irving Domingo Rio delivered his opening remarks emphasizing his gratitude to Tra Vinh University’s hospitality, friendship, trust, and active engagement in translating the signed Memorandum of Agreement into concrete reality.
Representatives from Tra Vinh University who were present via online platform.
“One of my long-term plans as President of CPU is to increase our research capabilities, so I am excited that we are taking a step in the right direction because today, we are launching research projects that will be generated by both universities,” CPU President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy said in his inspirational message. He also emphasized that these projects would solidify the partnership between the two institutions in continuing the pursuit of academic excellence and ensuring their friendship, which would positively impact their communities for years to come.
Another inspirational message was given by the Tra Vinh University Vice Director, Associate Professor Diep Thanh Tung. One of the highlights of the launch was the introduction of researchers from two universities. Dr. Huy Thong Nguyen, Deputy Director of the International Education Institute, introduced esteemed researchers from Tra Vinh University, while Dr. Evelyn Grace Ayson, Director of the University Research Center, also introduced proponents of different research projects from the Central Philippine University.
Dr. Shiela Pingul-ong, Faculty of the Department of Chemical Engineering, shared her words of commitment. “While we acknowledge that taking on this project will bring us many challenges, be it in the technical aspects of data gathering and analysis or in the differences in time, distance, language, and culture, we welcome all these with an open mind,” she added. On the other hand, Dr. Le Ngoc Long, faculty member of the Department of Material Science at Tra Vinh University, also extended his words of commitment.
The event concluded with closing remarks and a prayer for successful engagements by CPU Vice President for Finance and Enterprises, Dr. Florence P. Bogacia.
CPU’s initiative to foster international collaborations builds bridges with other institutions, paving the way for a more integrated and collaborative pursuit of academic excellence.