USJ Signs MoU with the University of San Agustin, Philippines, to Strengthen Global Partnership
USJ Signs MoU with the University of San Agustin, Philippines, to Strengthen Global Partnership
06
Aug
06/08/2026
The MoU represents a meaningful milestone in strengthening elite exchange, promoting academic development, and further enhancing global linkages between the two institutions.
On 4 August, the University of Saint Joseph (USJ), Macao, welcomed a delegation from the University of San Agustin (USA), Philippines, for an institutional visit and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement formalizes an official partnership between the two universities, building on their earlier initiation through the AUAP Faculty Development Program held in Bangkok, where USJ and USA first connected through academic exchange.
The MoU represents a meaningful milestone in strengthening elite exchange, promoting academic development, and further enhancing global linkages between the two institutions.
During the meeting, Dr. Alejandro, Acting Rector of USJ, highlighted the value of people engagement, recognising the dedication of those working behind the scenes to ensure that the projects come to fruition. Professor Álvaro Barbosa, Vice-Rector for Internationalisation and Academic Affairs, further emphasised the importance of supporting diverse cultures and nationalities within Macao, including through initiatives that promote the wellbeing of communities, such as fellowships for the children of immigrant workers in Macao.
Discussions between USJ and USA reflected strong enthusiasm for cooperation, particularly through the Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences and the Department of Architecture and Design. Together, the universities will advance cross-disciplinary initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable wellbeing, while also building practical momentum for collaboration beyond academic exchange. Both institutions expressed confidence that the agreement will unlock numerous opportunities for collaboration, including innovation, talent exchange, academic workshops, and cultural immersion programs, to create mutual benefits for both universities and their communities.
At the same period of time, the University of San Agustin is attending the Service-Learning Student Summit 2026 (SLSS 2026) and the Uniservitate Award 2026 Awarding Ceremony which is taking place at USJ. USA was recognised as an awardee of the Institutional Program. USJ also extended congratulations to the University of San Agustin on its achievements within the Uniservitate Network.
Delegations in attendance from USJ also included Prof. Jacky Ho, Dean of the Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences; Prof. Nuno Soares, Head, Department of Architecture and Design; Mrs. Paula Mota, Head of the International Affairs Office; and Ms. Teresinha from the International Affairs Office. Delegations in attendance from USA included Dr. Regina Aileen May V. Vergara, Vice-President for Academic Affairs; Ms. Maria Cristy Daguay, Director of the Social Advocacy and Community Engagement Office (SACEO); and Ms. Patricia Justine Vergara, Academic Supervisor.
About University of San Agustin (USA)
The University of San Agustin extends its academic offerings from basic education all the way to post-graduate studies. These programs cover various fields such as Law, Business, Education, Computer Studies, Arts and Sciences, Performing Arts, Music, Engineering, Medical Technology, Nursing, and Pharmacy. The university marked its 120-year anniversary as a higher learning establishment during 2024. The institution holds a position as a Center of Development in Teacher Education through accreditation from the Commission on Higher Education. Source: https://usa.edu.ph/
