DEBESMSCAT Advances Global Academic Ties with Kenya’s Tharaka University

Dr. Emilio B. Espinosa Sr. Memorial State College of Agriculture and Technology has taken a significant step forward in its internationalization efforts through a strategic collaboration with Kenya’s Tharaka University. On February 3, 2025, a virtual meeting was held to expand upon the partnerships outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between the two institutions last year. The meeting was moderated by the International Relations Officer Ms. Nikki Faith A. Bantillo. Key attendees from DEBESMSCAT included Dr. Elreen A. Delavin, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Rodolfo B. Burac Jr., Vice President for Research and Extension; Dr. Alvin M. Mahawan, Director for Research; and several faculty representatives. Tharaka University was represented by Director Collins Siteinei, Director of Linkages and Partnership, along with other academic leaders.

The discussion focused on actionable initiatives to strengthen academic and research ties between the two institutions. Priority areas for joint research programs were identified, including climate-smart agriculture, sustainable agricultural practices, and technology-driven solutions for rural development along engineering, data science, machine learning and AI. The meeting also addressed plans for faculty and student mobility programs to facilitate the exchange of expertise in agricultural practices, data science, and machine learning applications. Curriculum development was another key topic, with both universities exploring the potential for joint degree pathways and credit-sharing frameworks in the programs between the two universities. The institutions discussed potential collaborative outreach programs to benefit communities in both regions. Moving forward, DEBESMSCAT and Tharaka University will work to finalize timelines for these collaborative initiatives and joint research projects.
This partnership underscores DEBESMSCAT’s growing role under the leadership of the SUC President III, Dr. Arnel B. Millesca as a hub for international academic cooperation, aligning directly with its mission to develop globally competitive education and community-driven innovation.

For the latest updates on this partnership and other international collaborations, you may follow the DEBESMSCAT’s official social media channels.