UL Joins EduCanada Pathways to Partnership Event In Manila

University of Luzon Joins EduCanada Pathways to Partnership Event in Manila: Advancing SDGs Through International Collaboration

On October 7, 2024, Dr. Carmelo E. Vidal, Dean of the Graduate School, participated in the EduCanada Pathways to Partnership Event at the Grand Hyatt Manila Hotel in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. The event was organized by the Embassy of Canada in partnership with Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan), a national association representing publicly-supported colleges, institutes, CEGEPS, and polytechnics in Canada.

This gathering brought together stakeholders from the Philippine private sector, educational institutions, and more than thirty Canadian colleges, polytechnics, and technical universities to explore innovative solutions for addressing education and workforce training gaps in the Philippines. With a strong emphasis on leveraging international partnerships, the event aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

SDG 4: Quality Education

The EduCanada event provided an important platform to discuss areas where international partnerships could enhance education systems. Dr. Vidal, representing UL, engaged with Canadian institutions to explore collaborations in areas such as curriculum development, faculty upskilling, and research and development. These initiatives aim to improve the quality of education at UL and other Philippine institutions, ensuring access to inclusive, equitable, and high-quality education for all, as outlined in SDG 4. By working with international partners, UL can strengthen its educational offerings, foster a more skilled workforce, and contribute to closing the educational gap in the Philippines.

SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

The event also focused on addressing workforce training gaps, which is essential for promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth (SDG 8). By forging connections with Canadian colleges and institutes, UL can develop programs that align with the needs of the labor market, particularly in sectors where there is high demand for skilled professionals. The discussions around contract training, research collaboration, and faculty development are key to equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in an ever-evolving global economy, thus supporting sustainable employment and economic development in the Philippines.

SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

A key feature of the EduCanada event was its focus on strengthening international partnerships. SDG 17 emphasizes the importance of collaboration between governments, the private sector, and educational institutions to achieve the SDGs. Dr. Vidal’s participation underscored UL’s commitment to fostering strategic partnerships with Canadian institutions, enabling both parties to work together towards shared goals. By building such international collaborations, UL can enhance its institutional capacity, exchange knowledge, and mobilize resources to achieve sustainable development objectives.

The engagement at the EduCanada event demonstrates UL’s commitment to aligning its initiatives with the broader global development agenda, particularly the SDGs. Dr. Vidal’s participation highlights the university’s proactive approach to fostering international collaboration that enhances educational quality, contributes to economic growth, and strengthens global partnerships. By building partnerships with global institutions, UL aims to prepare its students for the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing world, ensuring that they are equipped with the skills to succeed in both the local and international job markets.

The University of Luzon extends its gratitude to Ms. Angel Cachuela, Trade Commissioner at the Embassy of Canada, for coordinating this impactful event and fostering meaningful connections between Philippine and Canadian educational institutions.