Baguio Central University (BCU) has taken another significant step in its commitment to internationalization by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Australian College of Studies (ACOS). The formal ceremony, held on April 3, 2025 at BCU’s Bonifacio Campus marks a milestone in BCU’s ongoing efforts to expand its global academic network and foster cross-cultural collaboration. This partnership aligns seamlessly with CHED Memorandum Order No. 55, series of 2016, which underscores the importance of internationalization in enhancing the quality and relevance of Philippine higher education. By collaborating with ACOS, BCU strengthens its commitment to global education by fostering partnerships with international institutions, ensuring that its students, faculty, and administrators gain access to diverse perspectives, innovative methodologies, and transformative learning experiences. This initiative not only expands BCU’s influence in global academia but also empowers its academic community to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
Dr. Elma D. Donaal, Vice President for Academic Affairs, who welcomed the ACOS partners, underscored the transformative potential of the partnership. “This MOU represents a bridge—a bridge that connects our stakeholders to new perspectives and innovative academic and training partnership,” she stated, emphasizing that the collaboration is a step toward creating a global learning ecosystem. Dr. Perfecto M. Lopez, BCU’s Vice President for Administration, and Dr. Lionel Chang, CEO of ACOS, led the introductions of key representatives from their respective institutions. Dr. Nathan Chang, Director and Deputy of ACOS, along with Mr. Joshua Ken Policarpio, provided an overview of ACOS as an institution for the participants.
Context and Framework
Dr. Genevieve B. Kupang, the International Relations Officer, [together with the Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Elma D. Donaal, and the University President Dr. Margarita Cecilda B. Rillera], who orchestrated this MOU in collaboration with Ms. Joeylyn R. Sagat, the ACOS offshore representative in the Philippines, provided the following context. This initiative, inspired by World-Systems Theory and Social Constructivism, aims to cultivate global citizenship, cultural understanding and knowledge exchange. It also supports the UN Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education, particularly target 4.7, which focuses on equipping learners with the knowledge and skills needed for sustainable development. Through this collaboration, both institutions aim to mainstream global citizenship education and promote cultural understanding in the academic programs. Dr. Kupang mentioned that:
“BCU is expanding international reach. BCU’s partnership with ACOS follows recent collaborations with Assist University in South Korea and the SDG School of Management in Switzerland. These initiatives reflect BCU’s strategic vision to remain globally competitive by forming alliances with institutions across continents. ACOS’s inclusion as a partner further strengthens BCU’s partnership with other countries, enriching its academic offerings and providing new opportunities for its stakeholders.”
Following Dr. Kupang’s overview of CHED Memorandum Order No. 55, and her explanation of the context and framework, Ms. Roula Christodoulides, the General Manager of Operations at ACOS, explained the highlights of the MOU. Subsequently, the details of the MOU Highlights were read. A question-and-answer session followed, with BCU administrators actively engaging the ACOS representatives, including Mr. Reginald Mangilit, the Office Manager of ACOS, Mr. Joshua Ken Policarpio whose responses were enthusiastic and thorough. After the discussion, a formal signing ceremony took place, followed by the awarding of Certificate of Appreciation and gestures of goodwill. The event concluded with networking opportunities and refreshments, fostering camaraderie among attendees.
BCU President Dr. Margarita Cecilda B. Rillera represented by her son Sir Karl Matthiue Rillera expressed optimism about the partnership’s potential impact: “This collaboration is about opening doors to global opportunities and empowering our stakeholders to make meaningful contributions on an international stage.” He reiterated BCU’s dedication to shaping future-ready graduates equipped to meet 21st-century challenges.
As Baguio Central University continues its journey toward internationalization, this partnership with the Australian College of Studies stands as a testament to its unwavering commitment to academic excellence, cultural exchange, and global citizenship. Through shared endeavors like this, BCU is poised to make a lasting impact on higher education locally and globally.
Mabuhay and Baguio Central University! Mabuhay ang Australian College of Studies! Mabuhay tayong lahat!