In a first, strategic move to boost internalisation and sustainable collaboration, the Tshwane University of Technology's Faculty of Management Sciences virtually signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Poytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), San Juan Campus on 25 July 2025.
The process of signing the MoU was initiated by Prof Johan de Jager from the Department of Marketing, Supply Chain and Sport Management, who instantly felt in love with the country’s rich culture when he attended a conference in Manilla. Last year, after attending a conference in Asia, Prof De Jager visited PUP and through their discussions it became evident that they wanted to collaborate with people from South Africa
“Although these are early days, I am convinced that the two institutions of higher learning have a lot in common - both are mega institutions - and are able to positively interact with one another, not only between departments but also Faculties,” said Prof De Jager.
Welcoming delegates during the signing ceremony, Felicitas Trinidad, Assistant Professor and Director: Office of International Affairs at PUP, said they were honoured to formalise a partnership that reflects the shared commitment to internationalisation; research collaboration; academic excellence and global engagement.
In highlighting the overview of the MoU, Cecillia Reyes Alagon, Campus Director of PUP, said the partnership will include mutual recognition of qualifications to facilitate post graduate studies; the exchange of Faculty staff and students at both undergraduate and graduate levels; and the joint development of education material and specialised courses.
“Both institutions agreed to support project-based learning and provide opportunities for students and staff to conduct research or academic work across campuses. In terms of research collaboration, the MoU allows for the exchange of researchers - particularly during sabbatical leave - and encourages joint research projects. In addition, each party may grant access to research equipment and facilities to support collaborative efforts. All financial obligations and logistical arrangements related to these activities will be discussed under separate agreements,” she said.
In his message of support, Dr Edgar Nesamvuni, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Management Sciences said the MoU will allow access to all TUT programmes and faculties to exchange students from PUP. “In support of the collaboration, TUT will focus mainly on teaching and learning, as well as research and community engagement. We would like to encourage staff exchange programmes where we see similarities in our programmes,” he said.
He also requested that young academics at both institutions be given an opportunity to have an exchange programme at undergraduate level in terms of teaching and learning while at senior level we should focus more on research projects. He added that such agreements offer some of our students – mostly those who are financially constrained – an opportunity to travel abroad on exchange programmes.
Prof Johan de Jager, Dr Anthony Drotsky, Dr Edgar Nesamvuni and Prof Ndivhuwo Tshipala who represented TUT during the virtual signing ceremony.