The University of San Jose–Recoletos (USJ-R), through the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS) and its Department of Communication, Languages, and Literature (DCLL), strengthens its academic partnership with Foundation University (FU) through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing and a meaningful dialogue on collaborative opportunities in research, faculty development, academic exchange, internationalization, and institutional capacity building.
Representing USJ-R were Dr. Ian Jarabelo, Chairperson of DCLL, and Ms. Maristela Rose Galia, faculty member of the department. They met with key academic and administrative leaders of Foundation University to discuss potential areas of cooperation and establish a foundation for sustained academic engagement and shared initiatives.
Representing Foundation University were Dr. Charlotte V. Cariño, University Chancellor; Dr. Romario P. Ybanez, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs; Dr. Alexander S. Baena, Director of the Office of Research and Extension Services; Anna Carla N. Merto, DBA, Internationalization Initiative Coordinator of the Office of Partnership and Global Engagements; Maria Cecilia M. Genove, PhD, EdD, LPT, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences; Peter Macabingu il, Assistant Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences; Juliet Cuizon, Creative Director and Chair of the Broadcast Communication Department; Angela Gabrielle B. Bacang, MAEd, faculty member of the College of Arts and Sciences; and Christopher Bernard S. Benong, MAEd, LPT, RChem.Tech., Chair of the Foundation University Ethics Board and faculty member of the College of Arts and Sciences.
The partnership opens opportunities for collaborative research and publication, particularly initiatives aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It also aims to encourage faculty exchange, academic and professional development, community outreach programs, internationalization initiatives, and interdisciplinary projects that bring together the expertise, resources, and institutional strengths of both universities.
Through these collaborative efforts, USJ-R and Foundation University seek to create meaningful avenues for knowledge sharing, innovation, and the development of research-driven solutions to contemporary educational and societal challenges. The partnership also underscores the importance of building academic networks that promote global perspectives, community engagement, and continuous professional growth.
For the Department of Communication, Languages, and Literature and the School of Arts and Sciences, this collaboration reflects a shared commitment to advancing research excellence, strengthening academic engagement, and fostering transformative learning experiences that extend beyond institutional boundaries.
As both institutions move forward with their shared initiatives, the partnership stands as a testament to the value of cooperation in advancing higher education.
