AUP has established a new international partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the International Cross-Cultural Exchange and Professional Development (ICEPD) Thailand. The virtual signing held on November 5, 2025, marked a meaningful step in expanding AUP’s global reach in intercultural education and academic collaboration.

The ceremony was attended by Dr. Arceli Rosario, AUP president; Dr. Gracel Ann Saban, vice president for academics; Dr. Michael Naidas, College of Arts and Humanities dean, and Dr. Ele Lunzaga, Development Communication Department chair.

Dr. Jervenesense Florece, Dr. Teofilo Esguerra, Jr., and Ms. Charyse Vine Unggay, faculty from the Development Communication Department were also present.

ICEPD Thailand was represented by Ajarn Anong Sookkasem, chief executive officer and Rolando Emilio Socorro, executive director, who emphasized their commitment to supporting international learning and professional development.

In her message, Sookkasem emphasized ICEPD’s commitment to fostering meaningful global partnerships, stating that the MOU “defines our shared vision of promoting collaboration, innovation, and academic excellence across borders.” She added that this agreement strengthens their mission to connect educators and institutions in creating lasting global impact, noting that both parties now move forward “with unity and purpose, building a strong foundation for growth and shared success.”

Dr. Rosario highlighted the alignment of values between the two institutions. She expressed that the partnership reflects AUP’s mission “to prepare young people for a life of service here on Earth and also service on the Earth to come,” further stressing the university’s commitment to developing graduates who are globally competent, ethically grounded, and spiritually inspired. “We at AUP are very grateful to ICEPD for initiating this collaboration and for taking us as your partner,” she added.

The MOU establishes a five-year cooperation focused on student, faculty, and researcher exchanges, collaborative research and community development, academic resource sharing, and joint international conferences and developmental programs. Through this partnership, both AUP and ICEPD Thailand aim to enhance intercultural learning and expand opportunities for academic and professional growth.

This new collaboration signifies a shared commitment to advancing global education and fostering meaningful cross-cultural engagement for the years ahead.