SMU and CIPRED, Nepal, Forge Stronger Ties with MOU to Support Indigenous Peoples' Education and Preservation
March 5, 2025 – Bayombong, Philippines – Saint Mary’s University (SMU) and the Center for Indigenous Peoples Research and Development (CIPRED), Nepal, took a major step toward advancing Indigenous rights and education, signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during a special signing ceremony at the SMU Boardroom. The partnership aims to promote the preservation, protection, and appreciation of Indigenous Peoples’ knowledge, values, and cultural traditions.
The ceremony was attended by key representatives from both institutions Dr. John Tayaban, Vice President for Administration, who represented the University President. Other SMU leaders included Dr. Moises Alexander Asuncion, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Clara Gonzales, Head of Promotions, External Relations, and Internationalization Office, and Dr. Christopher Allen S. Marquez, Director of Community Engagement and Indigenous Peoples Studies Center, who kicked off the event with a heartfelt welcome message.
Also present were Miss Laurice Kaye Laguinday, Indigenous Peoples Studies Coordinator, who highlighted the key elements of the MOU, and Deans Dr. Felipe Nantes (School of Teacher Education and Humanities) and Dr. Joman Baliton (School of Health and Natural Sciences), both of whom lent their support to the collaboration.
Leading the CIPRED delegation was Dr. Pasang Dolma Sherpa, the Executive Director of CIPRED, who expressed her excitement about the partnership. She spoke of the shared vision to support and uplift Indigenous communities through education, cultural exchange, and research.
The primary goal of the MOU is to foster academic and educational cooperation between SMU and CIPRED, facilitating knowledge exchange and creating opportunities for joint research, educational programs, and community engagement. The partnership is specifically focused on the preservation of Indigenous knowledge systems, cultural practices, and languages, ensuring these valuable traditions are protected and passed on to future generations.
Dr. Tayaban, speaking on behalf of SMU, shared his enthusiasm for the partnership, calling the MOU a key step in the university’s commitment to inclusive and culturally responsive education. He emphasized how this collaboration aligns with SMU’s broader mission to build stronger connections between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.
Dr. Sherpa from CIPRED echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of the MOU for both organizations. She emphasized that this collaboration would open doors for cultural exchange and foster a deeper understanding of Indigenous issues. She also noted that working together could play a pivotal role in advancing the global movement for Indigenous rights.
The signing of the MOU marks the beginning of a meaningful partnership between SMU and CIPRED, with both institutions committed to exploring joint research projects, educational programs, and other initiatives that will benefit Indigenous communities.
With this agreement in place, Saint Mary’s University and CIPRED, Nepal, are excited to work together to create lasting positive change for Indigenous Peoples, building a foundation for future educational, cultural, and community-based efforts. This partnership is a significant step forward in empowering Indigenous communities and helping preserve their invaluable cultural heritage for years to come.
Heidee L. Lamoste (CEIPSC Staff)
