UAD and WPU Philippines are Officially Establish International Collaboration for Global Innovation

Universitas Ahmad Dahlan (UAD) has officially expanded its international network by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Western Philippines University (WPU) on February 24, 2025. The signing ceremony took place at WPU AVH Campus in Puerto Princesa, Philippines, marking a new beginning in the development of education, research, and community service, particularly for the Muslim community in Palawan, Philippines.  

This strategic collaboration was initiated by the Doctoral Education Program of the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP) at UAD, representing the university. The event was attended by WPU President Dr. Amabel S. Liao, along with WPU leadership team, including the vice president, deans, and international cooperation team.  

In her speech, Dr. Amabel emphasized that this collaboration is not just a formal ceremony. “This partnership is not merely about signing documents; it represents the commitment of both universities to institutional development, which must be realized through concrete implementation. The main focus is to enhance skills and create innovations that can be directly utilized by both parties,” she stated.  

Representing UAD, Prof. Dr. Ir. Dwi Sulisworo, M.T., Head of the Doctoral Education Program, highlighted the potential collaborations in student and faculty exchanges, joint research, co-publications, and community service programs. “This new chapter of collaboration will be a significant journey in advancing innovation and mutual growth. We can achieve great things through various mutually beneficial activities,” he said.  

A thorough discussion on the implementation of this collaboration has already taken place, marking the beginning of concrete steps that will soon be executed. This partnership was established in response to the increasing demand for collaboration between the Muslim community in Palawan and UAD. Representing UAD, Dr. Ika Maryani, M.Pd., Secretary of the Doctoral Education Program, along with students from UAD’s Doctoral Education Program and Prof. Dr. Siti Mahsanah Budijati, who is also part of the community service implementation team, were present. 

With this partnership, both universities are committed to strengthening their relationship and fostering innovations that will benefit not only their respective institutions but also the wider community.