MSEUF explores collaboration with University of Technology Sydney
Dr. Carmina V. Tolentino, the Director of the University Laboratories at Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation (MSEUF) and Mr. Jason De Santolo, the Associate Dean of the Jumbunna Institute for Indigenous Education and Research at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), engaged in a meeting, Feb. 21, at the UTS Tower in Sydney Central City.
The was facilitated through the initiative of Aunt Cheryl and Uncle Ken Cunning, revered elders of Jumbunna Institute and founding members.
UTS, currently ranked as the 9th Best University in Australia and 47th globally, hosted Dr. Tolentino for a comprehensive introduction and facility tour.
The Jumbunna Institute, boasting the largest student population and government funding among Indigenous Peoples’ Education in Australia, expressed keen interest in collaborative ventures with MSEUF.
During the meeting, Dr. Tolentino presented the rich university profile and insightful information regarding Quezon Province, focusing on Indigenous Peoples, specifically the Aetas, and Badjaos. She highlighted MSEUF’s accomplished research on Ips’ culture, beliefs, and livelihood programs.
From the perspective of UTS Jumbunna Institute, their current focal points for collaboration include filmography of IPs, the revitalization of indigenous languages, IPs rights, collaborative opportunities through master’s theses and dissertation research, and demonstrating scholarships among Ips, potentially leading to employment opportunities within the university for research endeavors.
Further communication and productive discussion between MSEUF and UTS Jumbunna Institute could set a partnership on various fronts. The partnership will encompass joint programs, research projects involving IPs, invitations for speakerships, whether online or face-to-face and cultural learning and exploration tours.
This alliance marks a promising stride toward promoting academic cooperation and advancing the understanding and appreciation of indigenous cultures.
By shaping future Criminologists, we are actively advancing the following Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
- SDG 4: Quality Education - The collaboration between MSEUF and UTS Jumbunna Institute focuses on education, with an emphasis on indigenous Peoples’ rights and revitalization.
of indigenous languages. - SDG 10 Reduced Inequalities - The initiative aims to reduce inequalities by promoting collaborative opportunities and scholarships among Indigenous Peoples, promoting inclusivity in education and research.
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions - The partnership involves the exploration of Indigenous People’s rights, aligning to promote just, peaceful, and inclusive societies.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals - The collaboration itself, as well as the proposed Memorandum of Understanding, reflects the spirit of Goal 17 by encouraging partnerships and cooperation between academic institutions to achieve sustainable development.