SMU–SMART PLDT Partnership Renewed
Saint Mary’s University and Smart Communications, Inc. officially renewed their Industry-Academe Partnership Phase 5 through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Signing Ceremony held at the University Boardroom. The partnership aims to strengthen collaboration between the education and telecommunications sectors to promote innovation and digital transformation. SMU is among the pioneering members of the Smart Wireless Engineering Education Program (SWEEP), having joined the initiative in 2004.
The event opened with remarks from Dr. John G. Tayaban, Vice President for Administration of SMU, followed by a message from Ms. Stephanie V. Orlino, Assistant Vice President and Stakeholder Engagement Head of PLDT and Smart.
The MOA signing and symbolic turnover of SWEEP equipment were conducted by SMU and Smart officials, signifying their joint commitment to promoting technology-driven learning. A Meta Quest Virtual Reality (VR) demonstration led by Mr. Ronald L. Ramos showcased immersive learning tools that can enhance classroom engagement and experiential learning.
Earlier in the day, participants from the School of Engineering, Architecture, and Information Technology (SEAIT) attended the “AI for All: PLDT and Smart’s Workshop on Integrating AI in Education”, facilitated by Mr. Ronald L. Ramos. The workshop provided hands-on learning experiences using ChatGPT, Gamma, and Kahoot, equipping faculty with practical skills in integrating artificial intelligence and digital tools into academic settings.
In his message of commitment, Dr. John Octavious S. Palina, University President, expressed appreciation to Smart Communications for its continuous support in empowering the university’s initiatives toward digital education and innovation.
The collaboration between SMU and Smart highlights their shared commitment to building a future-ready academic community, where technology drives learning, innovation, and sustainable development, aligning with the SDG 4 Quality Education, which aims to increase the number of youth and adults who have relevant skills, including technical and vocational skills, for employment, decent jobs, and entrepreneurship. SDG 9 Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, as it promotes innovation and the integration of technology in education and SDG 17 Partnerships for the Goals, which embodies collaboration between the academe and industry to achieve shared developmental objectives.
Written by: (Ms. Krby Zyryll G. Perez, SEAIT PIO Coordinator)
Photo by: (Ms. Krby Zyryll G. Perez, SEAIT PIO Coordinator)
