UMT expands its global knowledge ecosystem through partnership with Southern Leyte State University (SLSU)
In the context of higher education undergoing profound transformation under the impact of digital transformation and artificial intelligence, libraries are increasingly evolving into knowledge connectivity hubs, playing a vital role in research, learning, and innovation within next-generation universities.
Recently, UMT Library officially signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Southern Leyte State University (SLSU – Philippines), further expanding its international academic network while advancing the development of digital libraries and an open educational resource ecosystem at UMT.
Prior to the signing, representatives from SLSU had visited and worked with UMT on two occasions. These professional exchanges, discussions on development strategies, and academic connections between the two institutions laid the foundation for mutual trust and a shared vision of modern education, while also opening long-term opportunities for collaboration in the fields of library services and digital resources.
Under the agreement, UMT and SLSU will jointly implement several key collaborative initiatives, including the sharing of physical and digital library resources; the integration of online library systems, academic search tools, and electronic document delivery platforms; as well as the exchange of scientific publications, research materials, and open educational resources to support learning and research activities.
Notably, UMT lecturers, staff members, and students will have the opportunity to access SLSU’s library systems and academic databases through the partner institution’s online library platform. They will also receive support in research activities, resource utilization, and academic exchange programs aligned with an international connectivity approach.
This partnership also aims to strengthen professional capacity development for library personnel, promote joint research in library and information science, and foster innovation in library services in alignment with emerging trends in ASEAN higher education.
The agreement further reflects UMT’s clear commitment to developing a smart library system and a modern digital learning environment, where learners are not only given access to knowledge, but are also empowered to develop information literacy, research capabilities, and lifelong learning competencies within an increasingly globalized world.
Representatives from SLSU also expressed their aspiration to further expand collaboration with UMT in the future across academic, technological, and digital resource development initiatives, thereby contributing to the establishment of a stronger knowledge-sharing network among educational institutions within the region.
