SLSU Strengthens Global Linkages Through AIT–EVCIEERD Memorandum of Understanding in Thailand

Southern Leyte State University (SLSU), through its participation in the Eastern Visayas Consortium for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (EVCIEERD), joined the International Collaboration and Regional Exposure Visit to Thailand on “Smart Cities and Sustainable Communities” held from March 15–21, 2026 at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT).

Representing SLSU in this important international engagement were Dr. Francis Ann R. Sy, Vice President for Research, Innovation and Extension Services, and Mr. Leo A. Omamalin, Director of University Planning and Development. Their participation reaffirmed the University’s strong commitment to expanding global partnerships and pursuing collaborative opportunities that will benefit research, innovation, extension, and institutional development.

A major highlight of the visit was the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between AIT and EVCIEERD on March 16, 2026, formalizing a collaborative partnership in the areas of industry, energy, and emerging technology research and development.

Under the agreement, AIT and EVCIEERD committed to pursue cooperation through the following key areas: the establishment of collaboration in industry, energy, and emerging technology research and development, particularly in bridging the gap in the utilization and commercialization of research results; the development and implementation of capacity-building PhD and Master’s programs; the conduct of short course trainings, workshops, and learning programs; the organization of joint conferences, seminars, and events; and other mutually agreed areas of cooperation.

The Memorandum also provides that the partnership shall remain effective for five (5) years from the date of signing, with the possibility of extension upon mutual consent of both parties. It further states that specific collaborative activities and financial arrangements shall be covered by separate Memoranda of Agreement for proper implementation.

Through this collaboration, SLSU and fellow EVCIEERD member institutions are expected to gain wider access to international knowledge exchange, professional capacity development, research engagements, and innovation-driven partnerships. The exposure visit also enabled delegates to gain valuable insights into Thailand’s smart transportation systems, digital innovation ecosystems, smart campus initiatives, and community-driven urban development models.

This milestone reflects SLSU’s continuing commitment to strengthening global partnerships and advancing research, innovation, and extension initiatives that are globally informed, locally relevant, and responsive to the needs of sustainable communities.