The Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA), through its Education and Collective Learning Department (ECLD)– Graduate Scholarships and Institutional Development Unit, has recently hosted a Culminating Forum to celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of alumni from the Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) – SEARCA Local and International Graduate Scholarship Programs in Livestock Research and Biotechnology. The event highlighted the transformative experiences of the scholars during their graduate studies and their significant impact on their individual careers, the PCC, and the communities they serve.
A Shared Commitment to Excellence
The forum opened with welcome remarks from Dr. Nur Azura Binti Adam, Deputy Director for Programs of SEARCA, and Dr. Liza G. Battad, Executive Director of the Philippine Carabao Center. Dr. Nur conveyed her deep appreciation to the PCC for entrusting SEARCA with the responsibility of implementing the scholarship project, emphasizing the importance of collaborative partnerships in advancing agricultural education and research in the region.
(L-R) Dr. Liza G. Battad, Executive Director of the Philippine Carabao Center, and Dr. Nur Azura Binti Adam, Deputy Director for Programs of SEARCA
In response, Dr. Battad thanked SEARCA's steadfast support in empowering ten PCC-SEARCA scholars to achieve their professional aspirations. She underscored that the success of the scholarship program aligns with the PCC's mission to enhance its capacity as an internationally accredited center for livestock research and development.
A Celebration of Academic Achievements
The focal point of the forum was the presentations by the PCC-SEARCA scholars, who shared their research findings and personal journeys throughout their graduate studies. These scholars provided insights into their thesis research and how they have applied new knowledge gained to improve practices at the PCC and better help the livestock farming communities.
The scholars also highlighted their experiences overcoming challenges met during their study journeys. These experiences and achievements have inspired them to give their best, reap awards, and aspire to get doctoral degrees soon.
A Message of Encouragement and Future Vision
In her closing remarks, Dr. Maria Cristeta N. Cuaresma, Senior Program Head of SEARCA's ECLD, conveyed her heartfelt appreciation to PCC, particularly Dr. Battad, for selecting SEARCA as the implementing partner for this capacity-building project. She also expressed her gratitude to her colleagues at SEARCA for their commitment and tireless efforts in ensuring the success of the scholarship program.
Dr. Cuaresma lauded the scholars for completing their graduate degrees despite the many hurdles they faced along the way. In her inspiring message, she reminded the graduates that their journey did not end with completing their studies but only the beginning of a broader mission to drive positive change in the agricultural sector. "Each of you plays an essential role in driving change, advancing knowledge, and shaping the future," she said.
Looking Forward to Continued Collaboration
The forum concluded with a renewed commitment to the continued development of the PCC as a center of excellence in livestock research. The collaboration between SEARCA and PCC is seen to continue as SEARCA transitions to its 12th Five-Year Development Plan.
As the PCC-SEARCA scholars embark on their professional careers, the event underscored the vital role of education, research, and partnerships in addressing the challenges facing agriculture in the region. The Culminating Forum, therefore, marked not just an academic milestone for the PCC-SEARCA scholarship program but also a significant moment in advancing the future of agricultural research and development.
