UPLB expanded its collaborations with Canadian institutions by partnering with Royal Roads University (RRU) to advance climate action leadership and sustainability.

Last November 9, Chancellor Jose V. Camacho Jr. and Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension Nathaniel C. Bantayan welcomed Dr. Philip Steenkamp, president and vice chancellor of RRU in the UPLB campus. The officials discussed the current collaboration between the two universities which formally began on June 27, 2023 through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding. 

The agreement involves research and academic collaborations in the fields of agriculture, food security, environment, rural development, and climate change.

Following the signing, UPLB and RRU worked on drafting the CLASPH project or the “Climate Leadership Action for Sustainability Program for Philippine Higher Education Institutions”. 

Ms. Tasha Welch, director of Global Recruitment and Partnerships of RRU, previously visited UPLB to co-write the project proposal with UPLB experts led by Vice Chancellor Bantayan.

The CLASPH project, submitted to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) for funding, aims to develop a climate action leadership program for higher education institution members of the Philippines-Canada Network for Sustainability. 

Participants of the project will be trained in initiating and leading climate actions within their institutions in the fields of instruction, research, and public service. 

Dr. Steenkamp was joined by Mr. Rudy Sabas, a consultant for the Philippine CHED-CBIE Education Partnerships, on November 9. 

They were welcomed by several researchers led by National Scientist Dr. Emil Q. Javier at the Institute of Plant Breeding (IPB). The institute showcased their various projects and products, including newly-developed plant varieties, germplasm conservation efforts, and hydroponics technology.

After their stop at IPB, they went to the UPLB Bee Program to learn about the group’s projects, practices, and experiences to help with RRU’s plan to establish their own bee program and center. The visitors were welcomed by Prof. Amelita C. Estacio and Professor Emeritus Cleofas R. Cervanacia. 

Afterwards, they sat down to discuss the ongoing collaborations between UPLB and RRU, one of which is the CLASPH project. 

Once the project is approved, it will be the first international collaboration between UPLB and RRU for climate action leadership and sustainability. The project is anticipated to be launched next year in line with the 75th anniversary of the Philippines-Canada diplomatic relationship. (John Paulo S. Quitoriano)