USM Forges International Partnership Through MoU Signing with Russian Academy of Sciences

The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) was one of the universities that joined a consortium initiated by Central Mindanao University (CMU) towards international partnership with the Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution of the Russian Academy of Sciences (SIEE RAS) on December 10, 2024, at the Farmer’s Training Center, CMU. The event was highlighted by a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and Knowledge Exchange.

The MOU is a product of a Parasitology Mini Symposium and Consortium Launching held in CMU on November 22, 2024. This symposium featured talks by Dr. Boris Efeykin from SIEE RAS, as well as by Dr. Evangeline C. Revilla and Dr. Kassey Asylle T. Dargantes on pressing issues related to parasites and diseases. These talks led to an exchange of ideas on the importance of genomic research, the control of parasitic diseases, and the need for stronger collaborations between local and international researchers.

This MOU signing was graced by the presence of Dr. Sergei M. Nadeinko, a corresponding member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, and Dr. Rolito G. Eballe, president of CMU. The initiative aims to foster collaboration in research, education, and personal and cultural exchange. Key areas of cooperation include joint research projects, exchange programs for students and faculty, and capacity building.

Dr. Debbie Marie B. Verzosa, USM’s Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension, represented the university during the signing ceremony, with Dr. Lothy F. Casim attending as witness. The event was also attended by other representatives of SIEE RAS, namely Dr. Evgeniy Guseve and Mr. Ivan Sotnikov. In total, 25 representatives from Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and three other government agencies signed the MOU.

Through this collaboration, USM aims to elevate its research profile, strengthen its academic programs, and contribute to global scientific advancement. The partnership is expected to yield significant benefits for all institutions involved, including increased international visibility, enhanced research output, and a deeper understanding of global ecological issues.

As the partnership progresses, USM, along with other HEIs and SIEE RAS, will work together to implement the terms of the MOU and achieve their shared goals.