Saint Mary’s University (SMU) expanded its international network by formalizing a partnership with Kanchanaburi Rajabhat University (KRU) in Thailand. The signing ceremony took place on August 29, 2023 at the University Boardroom.

Dr. Rattananonsathien Narongdech, Vice President of KRU, and Miss Siriwarin Gray, KRU SEA-Teacher Coordinator, received a warm welcome from SMU administrators, with University President Dr. John Octavious S. Palina leading the reception.

The event was attended by several SMU administrators, including VPAA Dr. Moises Alexander Asuncion, VPA Dr. John Tayaban, SAB Dean Dr. Regina Ramel, STEH Dean Dr. Henry Gamboa, and Professional Education Department Head Mr. Gerome Bautista. The signing ceremony was facilitated by Promotions and Linkage Coordinator Rheena Niña Salinas.

Additionally, three exchange students from Thailand, Natthinan Phummarin and Peerapat Yuktichart from KRU, and Ooranuch Jantrapreechakul from Lampang Rajabhat University, attended the ceremony.

The partnership aims to promote mutually beneficial programs in instruction, research, and extension. Notably, KRU and SMU were already connected through their membership in SEAMEO, the primary organizer of the SEA-Teacher Project.

The SEA-Teacher Project focuses on pre-service student-teacher exchange in Southeast Asia. SMU participates in this initiative alongside other universities, striving to enhance teaching experiences for future educators in the region and expand their teaching horizons.