In a significant step toward the global integration of Philippine higher education, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) announced the country’s progress in strengthening academic collaboration with Australia. This development is part of a broader initiative aligned with the internationalization strategy of higher education institutions (HEIs) under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
CHED Chairperson J. Prospero de Vera III emphasized the strategic importance of this initiative, describing it as a milestone in the Philippines’ efforts to cement its place within the global education landscape. He underscored the significance of forging partnerships that enhance academic standards and respond to the evolving needs of the international labor market.
“This collaboration reinforces the Philippines’ role in the global education sector, deepens educational ties with Australia, and lays the groundwork for future academic ventures that benefit both countries,” De Vera stated. His remarks followed the Transnational Education (TNE) Opportunity Forum, a high-level event that explored collaborative opportunities between Philippine and Australian HEIs.
Held in conjunction with the Philippine higher education mission to Sydney and Adelaide, the TNE Opportunity Forum provided a platform for academic leaders from both nations to engage in strategic dialogue. Discussions focused on creating joint programs, research collaborations, and exchange initiatives that would foster mutual growth and academic excellence.
In a separate address, De Vera encouraged Australian universities to expand their academic presence in Asia through partnerships with Philippine institutions. He highlighted several strengths of the Philippines’ higher education system, particularly the high graduation rate at the undergraduate level, which positions the country favorably among Southeast Asian nations.
“We have a dynamic and young population that is proficient in English and actively seeking educational opportunities across multiple disciplines and delivery modes,” he noted. De Vera emphasized that this demographic advantage offers considerable potential for collaboration in fields such as medicine and allied health, science and technology, information technology, aviation, animation, game development, maritime education, and tourism management.
Among the leading Australian universities that participated in the forum were the University of New South Wales, University of Technology Sydney, University of Canberra, University of the Sunshine Coast, Victoria University, Charles Sturt University, Australian Catholic University, and the University of Western Sydney. Their involvement reflected a strong interest in exploring new academic frontiers with Philippine counterparts.
Representing the Philippine delegation were top officials from five major HEIs, including Chancellor Michael Tee of the University of the Philippines-Manila; Maria Teresita Medado, President of Asia Pacific College; Renato Carlos Ermita Jr., President of National University; Erwin Cadorna, President of the University of Northern Philippines; and Jaime Manuel, President of Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University. Their presence underscored the country’s commitment to establishing robust institutional linkages and enhancing the global competitiveness of its higher education sector.
In addition to academic leaders, CHED collaborated with other national agencies, including the Philippine Board of Investments and the Clark Development Corporation. This inter-agency approach is designed to reinforce the country’s vision of becoming a regional hub for international education by promoting long-term partnerships that encompass academic, economic, and developmental dimensions.
Through these initiatives, the Philippines aims to create a more globally connected and responsive education system that prepares its students to thrive in a rapidly changing world. By aligning national education strategies with global trends, CHED continues to position the country as a key player in the international academic community.
