Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, President of West Visayas State University, joined an esteemed delegation of Philippine representatives in France for the 2nd Philippines-France Joint Committee Meeting (JCM-2) on Science and Technology. The event, which runs from December 9 to 12, 2024, is a significant platform for fostering science and technology cooperation between the Philippines and France.

The JCM-2, led by DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. and his French counterpart, served as a platform to strengthen the longstanding partnership between the Philippines and France in the fields of Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI). Discussions focused on joint initiatives such as the PhilFrance Scholarship and the PHC-SFTP Researchers Mobility Program, alongside opportunities for future collaborations.

One of the major topics of discussion at JCM-2 is the update on the PhilFrance Scholarship and the PHC-SFTP Researchers Mobility Program, which promote academic and professional exchanges between the Philippines and France. Dr. Villaruz, as part of the Philippine delegation, underscores the significance of these programs, noting that they open doors for Filipino students and researchers to engage in world-class learning and research experiences.

The event also highlighted the critical role of universities like WVSU in fostering international cooperation. Dr. Villaruz, alongside other university representatives, engaged with French institutions to build academic networks and enhance research exchanges, particularly in health, environmental sciences, and emerging technologies. This collaborative spirit aims to enhance research capacity-building, increase scientific data sharing, and facilitate personnel exchange.

As the Philippine delegation continues its discussions with French research agencies, there is optimism for the establishment of a framework agreement that will advance joint projects and strengthen bilateral relations in STI.

Dr. Villaruz’s participation reflects West Visayas State University’s dedication to playing an active role in global scientific advancements. By fostering international partnerships, WVSU continues to uphold its mission of addressing societal challenges through innovation, research, and collaboration.

This milestone event reaffirms the commitment of both nations to advance science for the betterment of society, with Dr. Villaruz and WVSU at the forefront of this collaborative journey. Through these efforts, WVSU continues to position itself as a key player in the global academic and research community