DEBESMSCAT Strengthens Global Ties: New Student Exchange Pact Signed with Taiwan Universities

August 20, 2025 – Dr. Emilio B. Espinosa Sr. Memorial State College of Agriculture and Technology (DEBESMSCAT), under the visionary leadership of College President Dr. Arnel B. Millesca, continues to broaden its global partnerships through the signing of an Academic and Student Exchange Agreement with two leading institutions in Taiwan—Southern Taiwan University of Science and Technology and Chenkou Technology University.

Representing DEBESMSCAT during the activity was Dr. Nikki Faith A. Bantillo, International Relations Officer, who took part in ORBIT 2025 organized by the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA). The program brought together State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs), and private higher education institutions across the Bicol Region to explore avenues for academic and cultural cooperation.The new partnership will pave the way for student exchanges, joint degree programs, and specialized learning immersions in diverse areas such as Agriculture, Business, Engineering, and Humanities. By engaging with Taiwan’s advanced academic and technological environment, students will gain global exposure and skills that align with international standards.

Expressing strong support for the initiative, CHED Regional Director Dr. Demetrio P. Anduyan Jr emphasized the importance of maximizing collaborations with Taiwan universities. He introduced the acronym TAIWAN to highlight areas of cooperation that SUCs, LUCs, and private HEIs can pursue.

Dr. Anduyan emphasized that these initiatives will help strengthen institutional capacities while preparing Filipino students and educators to thrive in a knowledge-driven, internationally connected environment.This milestone marks another step forward in DEBESMSCAT’s commitment to building global-ready graduates and stronger academic partnerships that benefit not only the college but the entire Bicol academic community.