Manila: Officials of the University of the Philippines (UP) and the province of Dinagat Islands have signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) to support the provincial government's educational, developmental, and governance priorities through evidence-based research, policy studies, and capacity-building initiatives.
According to Philippines News Agency, the partnership will also explore developing collaborative programs in governance, environmental sustainability, public administration, fisheries, agriculture, marine science, education, health, digital transformation, renewable energy, and local economic development. UP President Angelo Jimenez and Dinagat Islands Governor Nilo Demerey Jr. signed the MOA in Manila on Tuesday.
'The signing of this MOA with UP is a landmark step toward strengthening the future of the Dinagat Islands,' Demerey stated. The MOA aims to assist in improving education, developing policies, boosting technical skills, supporting research, and building human resources as the province prepares to establish the Dinagat Islands State College (DISC).
Under the MOA, UP will serve as an academic consultant, institutional adviser, and strategic development partner. The educational institution will provide technical advice, consultancy, mentoring, and assist in establishing the DISC through curriculum review, academic development, faculty initiatives, training, workshops, and research collaborations.
The provincial government will provide policy support and facilitate coordination among provincial offices, local government units, stakeholders, and partner agencies, including logistical and administrative support. Demerey emphasized that through the partnership, the province will gain access to evidence-based research, policy studies, and capacity-building initiatives that will directly enhance governance, education, and development programs.
'It will also provide vital academic and technical support as we prepare for the establishment of the DISC, ensuring that our youth and professionals are equipped with the knowledge and skills to lead our province into a progressive future,' he stated.
