OFFICIALS of both the Embassy of Spain in the Philippines and officials of the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) recently met to broach areas of possible collaboration.
In the meeting, Education Advisor Beatriz Jimeno-Ortas of the Embassy of Spain and SEARCA officials led by Director Dr. Glenn Gregorio explored SEARCA's programs on the internationalization of education in the Philippines and Southeast Asia.
Gregorio said SEARCA is mandated to produce and equip agricultural professionals in the region.
Jimeno-Ortas also explored a possible partnership between SEARCA and the Green European University (UNIgreen).
She said UNIgreen is an alliance of eight European higher education institutions that promotes excellence in teaching, learning, research and innovation in sustainable agriculture, green biotechnology, and environmental and life sciences.
Gregorio also discussed several SEARCA projects and programs on smart agriculture, school and home gardens, scholarships, and other entry points where the Embassy of Spain could bridge SEARCA to relevant institutions in Spain.
With Gregorio during the meeting were Associate Prof. Joselito Florendo, SEARCA deputy director for administration; Dr. Maria Cristeta Cuaresma, senior program head of Education and Collective Learning Department; Dr. Gerlie Tatlonghari, program head of Research and Thought Leadership Department; and Sharon Malaiba, head of Partnerships Unit.
