PRC Board of Fisheries Pays Courtesy Visit to USM Ahead of Hybrid Inspection Activity
May 13, 2026
The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) College of Trades and Industries recently held an online meeting with the Vanuatu Institute of Technology (VIT) to discuss possible academic partnerships, including a Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) initiative and a proposed Faculty Exchange Program. The meeting took place on May 11, 2026.
Based in Port Vila, Vanuatu (Oceania), VIT is a technical institution that offers programs in Automotive Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Architectural and Wood Engineering, along with other skilled trades.
During the discussion, both institutions expressed interest in launching the partnership in time for the opening of the first semester of Academic Year 2026–2027. Early plans included identifying one priority skilled program and one core subject that could be jointly delivered by both schools. They also discussed the importance of aligning course syllabi, schedules, and timelines early on, especially with the time zone differences between the two countries.
Representing VIT were School Principal Mr. Wade Evans, School Manager Mr. Tom Saute, Trainer Mr. Karl Alvin Advincula — a USM CTI alumnus currently deployed by Suzuki Japan, and other VIT instructors.
Joining the meeting on behalf of USM were University President Dr. Jonald L. Pimentel, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Leorence C. Tandog, Director for Instruction Dr. Leonard Paleta, Director for International Affairs Prof. Bryan Bretaña, CTI Dean Dr. Joel V. Misanes, and faculty members from the CTI.
Both institutions described the initial talks as productive and are expected to continue coordination meetings in the coming months to finalize the details and prepare the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) before the planned implementation next semester.
