Rizal Technological University (RTU) hosted the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) Manila Program Coordination Office (PKO) in a visit that is significant in discussing new potential projects and strategic partnerships.
The TIKA delegation was led by Mr. Naci Yorulmaz, TIKA Vice President, along with Mr. Ibrahim Katirci, TIKA Country Director for the Philippines, and Ms. Seylan Emre, TIKA Philippines Desk. Their presence made it clear that the visit’s purpose was intent in two things: to explore new avenues for cooperation and to directly underscore TIKA’s sustained commitment to forging educational and developmental ties with institutions in the Philippines such as RTU.
The visit served as a crucial scoping meeting, with TIKA’s leaders engaging directly with key RTU officials who extended a warm welcome and shared valuable institutional insights. Present during the meeting were Dr. Kristine Y. Opulencia, Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs; Dr. Rodrigo D.P. Tomas, Dean of the Office of the Student and Alumni Affairs Services; Dr. Mark Joseph D. Santos, Director of the Institute of Human Kinetics; Assoc. Prof. Arden Mark M. Santos, Head of the Sports Development Unit; Instr. Donato Z. Estocada, Director of the International Affairs and Linkages Office; and Dr. Sheila G. Manahan, Director of the University Public Affairs Office.
The discussions focused on understanding RTU’s specific needs in areas like academic programs, student affairs, and sports development, laying the necessary groundwork for designing and executing future collaborative projects. In a notable highlight of the event, RTU presented TIKA Manila PKO with a Plaque of Appreciation in sincere recognition of their generous support and invaluable partnership as the Project Sponsor in the successful improvements in the University Quadrangle, various sports facilities, and Equipment Improvement Project, affirming their positive track record.
This pivotal engagement with the TIKA leadership affirms RTU’s strong commitment to internationalization and its proactive approach to securing global partnerships. By actively initiating and hosting high-level discussions with an esteemed international development organization, RTU is strategically positioning itself to acquire foreign resources, share best practices, and enhance its academic and student programs. This commitment not only benefits the immediate university community but also solidifies RTU’s trajectory toward becoming a globally recognized technological institution deeply invested in continuous growth and excellence, a vision TIKA’s support has tangibly helped realize.
