#GoingGlobal: VSU Isabel, Institut Teknologi Adhi Tama Surabaya advance Industrial Engineering education in recent MOU

Visayas State University Isabel (VSUI) and the Institut Teknologi Adhi Tama Surabaya (ITATS) of Indonesia formalized a partnership to strengthen Industrial Engineering education through a virtual signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). 

The agreement establishes a framework for student and faculty development, joint research and innovation, training, academic exchanges, and international learning experiences. Through these initiatives, the partnership aims to broaden the international exposure of VSU Isabel's Industrial Engineering students and faculty while strengthening the program's industry relevance and global visibility. 

“Through this partnership, we look forward to exploring meaningful collaboration in faculty and student development, joint research and publication, academic exchanges, conferences and training programs, technological innovation, curriculum enhancement, and community extension activities,” said Dr. Catherine Chan, Chancellor of VSU Isabel, in her welcome remarks, during the MOU signing on September 9, 2026.

Dr. Chan also emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration between the two institutions.

"As we sign this agreement, let us remember that distance should never be a barrier to collaboration, and differences should never prevent us from learning from one another," she added.

The collaboration will explore potential initiatives in key areas of Industrial Engineering including ergonomics and human factors, occupational safety and health, productivity and quality improvement, operations and supply chain management, sustainable manufacturing, and Industry 4.0 technologies. These areas provide opportunities for faculty and students from both institutions to share expertise and collaborate on formulating solutions for real-world industrial and community challenges.  

Engr.  Darry Mhei Morales, Director for Research, Extension, and Innovation of VSU Isabel, also highlighted the potential for joint training, workshops, guest lectures, and student presentations that will allow faculty and students from both institutions to share their expertise and best practices. 

“We hope that this MOU will serve as a starting point for concrete and sustainable programs that will strengthen the Industrial Engineering programs of both VSU Isabel and ITATS,” Engr. Morales said in her message. 

Following the signing, the two institutions will move toward finalizing the annual activity plan that will guide the implementation of their collaborative initiatives. 

Over the next three to five years, the partnership is envisioned to support sustained academic and research collaboration through student and faculty exchanges, joint research projects, training programs, and industry-oriented activities in Industrial Engineering. 

Both institutions also hope to develop joint international projects and innovations that will enhance student competencies and faculty expertise. 

The article aligns with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

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