CHED explores France, UK partnerships on nuclear science, deep-tech innovation

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) is exploring potential partnerships with organizations in France and the United Kingdom to strengthen nuclear science education, advanced research, and deep-tech innovation in the Philippines.

According to the commission, CHED Chairperson Shirley Agrupis held separate meetings with officials from the International Institute of Nuclear Energy (I2EN) and UK-based innovation firm Biospire on the sidelines of the UNESCO Transforming Education Summit +4 in Paris.

During her meeting with I2EN Executive Director Jan van der Lee and Project Director Thibaud Reysset, discussions focused on potential collaboration in graduate education, specialized training, student and faculty exchanges, research fellowships, and other academic mobility programs.

CHED said I2EN also presented opportunities for Philippine higher education institutions to benefit from France's expertise in nuclear education, including curriculum development, instructional materials, and learning visits to industrial and research facilities.

The commission said a potential partnership would enable Philippine universities to strengthen their academic, research, and industry linkages in nuclear science and engineering.

In a separate meeting, Agrupis met with Biospire Chief Executive Officer Masashi Matsunaga to discuss ways to connect Philippine researchers and higher education institutions with international academic and industry networks. The discussions focused on promoting knowledge exchange, research collaboration, technology transfer, and innovation in sustainable agriculture and food systems.

The commission said the talks also explored possible support for Philippine agritech initiatives through access to international expertise, research capabilities, and industry partnerships.

CHED said the meetings are part of its ongoing efforts to expand international linkages that could enhance the research, innovation, and academic capabilities of Philippine higher education institutions.

The commission added that any future cooperation remains subject to further technical discussions and the development of mutually agreed-upon programs and arrangements. —VBL, GMA News