July 31, 2024 - In a significant move to advance smart agriculture and foster international collaboration, Romblon State University and the Dalhousie University – Faculty of Agriculture inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) last July 19, 2024, at Dalhousie University's Halifax Campus. The MOU was signed by RSU President, Dr. Merian P. Catajay Mani and Mr. Matt Hebb, Vice President of the Government and Global Relations at Dalhousie University.

Witnessing the momentous occasion were Congressman Eleandro Jesus F. Madrona, Representative of the Lone District of Romblon, and Her Excellency Maria Andrelita S. Austria, Ambassador of the Philippines to Canada, along with other representatives from RSU, Dalhousie University, and the Nova Scotia - Office of Intergovernmental Affairs.

This MOU marks a new chapter in the ongoing collaboration between RSU and Dalhousie University, focusing initially on the field of smart agriculture. The agreement outlines a commitment from both institutions to cooperate in the development of smart agriculture initiatives at RSU and the province of Romblon at large.

This strategic partnership not only strengthens the academic ties between RSU and Dalhousie, but also represents a significant milestone following RSU's prior engagement with Canadian Higher Education Institutions at the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) Conference held in Vancouver last November 2023. This initial engagement was made possible through the initiative of the Commission on Higher Education – International Affairs Service, led by Atty. Lily Freida M. Milla, as well as Ms. Angel Cachuela, Trade Commissioner of Embassy of Canada – Manila, who facilitated that matching process that led to RSU and Dalhousie’s first meeting. This mission would have also not been possible without the unwavering support of CHED Chairmain, Dr. J. Prospero “Popoy” E. De Vera III.

In its commitment to academic excellence, internationalization, and sustainability, RSU and Dalhousie are set to embark on a collaborative journey that promises to bring innovation, sustainability, and growth to the field of agriculture and fisheries, ultimately benefiting communities in both the Romblon and Nova Scotia.