Text and photos by Jennifer Manongdo
The University of the Philippines Manila and the Faculty of Dentistry of Chiang Mai University (Dent CMU) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to boost cooperation in dental education, scientific research, and academic exchange.
The five-year agreement was signed on March 24, 2026, by UP Manila Chancellor Michael Tee, College of Dentistry Dean Michelle Segarra, Dent CMU Dean Narumanas Korwanich, and Dent CMU Associate. Prof. Tanida Srisuwan.
The two universities committed to redefine dental education and research in the ASEAN region by establishing a comprehensive framework for both universities to share resources and expertise across several key areas: joint research, consultancy services, information exchange (not limited to research publications), participation in seminars, lectures, and academic meetings, student exchange programs, and faculty exchange for part-time teaching.
“This memorandum of understanding formalizes our shared commitment to strengthening collaboration in education, research, and scientific exchange,”
Dent CMU Dean Narumanas Korwanich said during the ceremony held via ZOOM.
“We look forward to joining research initiatives, academic knowledge sharing, and fostering meaningful connections through students and faculty exchange,” he added.
The partnership between UP Manila and Dent CMU dives deeper into the roots of dental innovation. The agreement outlines a robust framework for Joint Research and Consultancy Services, ensuring that the brightest minds from both nations are working together on the next generation of dental treatments.
UP Manila Chancellor Michael Tee expressed support for the collaboration with Dent CMU. “We are confident that with this partnership, we can work together and solve some of the pressing issues in the oral health industry through research, making sure that oral health is at the center of our implementation of universal health care,” he said.
Meanwhile, Dean Michelle Sunico-Segarra of the College of Dentistry at UP Manila described the partnership as a milestone, emphasizing Chiang Mai University’s reputation for excellence in research, productivity, and community service.
“With this memorandum of understanding, we hope to build a strong partnership with your esteemed university and create several academic exchanges and visit opportunities for both our faculty members and students, joint research projects, as well as conferences,” she said.#
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