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After discussions that began last year, the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) and Indonesia’s Universitas Almuslim formalized their plans for academic cooperation through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed on October 13, 2026, at the Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia in Davao City.
The agreement provides a framework for student exchanges, internships, faculty and staff mobility, joint research, and other academic initiatives that the two universities may pursue for their respective communities.
Mr. Frans Bert D. Gomez, head of USM’s Multicultural Indigenous Peoples Center for Research, Education, and Development, said the signing formalizes the discussions between the institutions that began last year.
USM President Jonald L. Pimentel, said the partnership opens opportunities for the universities to work together on academic programs, extension services, and cultural exchanges.
“Through this collaboration, we envision stronger academic programs, collaborative extension services for the needs of our communities, and cultural exchanges,” Pres. Pimentel said.
He added that education becomes more meaningful when institutions work together and share their strengths.
Universitas Almuslim Rector Dr. Marwan, M.Pd., said the two universities also intend to explore cooperation beyond agriculture, including student and faculty exchanges in other academic fields.
“Beyond agriculture, we seek opportunities to work together in many other fields,” Dr. Marwan said, citing the potential for student and faculty exchange opportunities.
Under the MOU, the universities may pursue joint research projects, co-authored publications, research mentoring, academic conferences, and short-term training programs. These may include agricultural technology and vocational training, English language courses, and communication workshops. The agreement also allows opportunities for qualified Universitas Almuslim faculty members and staff to apply for postgraduate studies at USM, subject to admission requirements.
Prof. Ma. Luz Calibayan, dean of the USM College of Arts and Social Sciences, said the MOU provides a framework for academic and educational collaboration intended to benefit students, faculty members, and staff of both institutions.
Meanwhile, Indonesian Consul General in Davao City Agus Trenggono congratulated the two universities on the agreement.
The MOU will remain in effect for three years. Specific programs and activities will require separate written agreements detailing their implementation and financial arrangements. USM officials present during the signing included Vice President for Academic Affairs Prof. Leorence C. Tandog; College of Agriculture Dean Prof. Tamie Solpot; College of Arts and Social Sciences Dean Prof. Ma. Luz Calibayan; and Office of International Affairs Director Assoc. Prof. Bryan Lloyd Bretaña, along with faculty members and represe
