Saint Louis University (SLU) and AboitizPower Distribution formalized their commitment to supporting the education of Electrical Engineering students through scholarship grants. The partnership was officially launched with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) at the SLU Incubator for Research Innovation and Business (SIRIB) Center on 27 May 2024.
The signing ceremony was attended by key representatives from both institutions, including Dr. Joselito C. Gutierrez, Executive Assistant to the President; Dr. Stephenie O. Busbus, incoming Director of the Office of the Global Relations and Alumni Affairs; Engineer Caroline M. Bautista, Associate Dean of SLU’s School of Engineering and Architecture (SEA); Belen B. Catanduanes, Senior Assistant Vice President and Human Resource Head of AboitizPower Distribution; Justin Jay G. Navarro, Assistant Vice President for Customer Solutions Group and General Office of Subic Enerzone Group; and Engineer Sharon B. Resurreccion, Department Head of SLU’s Electrical Engineering program.
Mr. Navarro opened the program on behalf of the Subic Enerzone Group, expressing his gratitude for the collaboration and highlighting the supportive environment SLU provides for students to explore their potential. Navarro emphasized that the scholarship program is not merely financial aid but an investment in the future, recognizing the students’ hard work and perseverance. “By providing these scholarships, we are investing in the leaders of tomorrow,” he stated.
Dr. Gutierrez then delivered the acceptance speech on behalf of Rev. Fr. Gilbert B. Sales, the University President, and the welcome message from Dr. Felina P. Espique, SLU’s Vice President for Academic Affairs. Dr. Gutierrez underscored the partnership’s aim to establish a strategic alliance in research and development with AboitizPower. He emphasized the mutual benefits for students and faculty in advancing research initiatives, ensuring that scholarship recipients maximize this opportunity to excel in their studies.
Moreover, Mrs. Catanduanes of AboitizPower Distribution shared that the initial exploratory meeting on 19 January 2024, led to this fruitful partnership. She noted the longstanding connection between AboitizPower and SLU alumni and expressed a desire to see more graduates join their ranks. She also mentioned that while AboitizPower has traditionally partnered with institutions in the Visayas and Mindanao regions, this new collaboration broadens their scope to include Luzon, specifically in Baguio City.
The collaboration aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 4 on Quality Education, SDG 11 on Sustainable Cities and Communities, SDG 12 on Responsible Consumption and Production, and SDG 17 on Partnerships for the Goals.
Saint Louis University is honored to embark on this new chapter of collaboration with AboitizPower Distribution, grateful for the opportunities presented in the memorandum and looks forward to the positive impact this partnership would have on its students and the broader community. – Article by Mae Janica Palkit, UIO Volunteer
