Nasrimah R. Sampaco-Fayez
Mindanao State University – Main Campus (MSU-Main) and Kastamonu University (KU) of Turkey further solidified their long-standing partnership with a significant seminar-lecture held today, May 5, 2025, at the OP Conference Room. The event brought together faculty and students from MSU’s Colleges of Forestry and Environmental Studies (CFES), Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences (CFAS), Natural Sciences and Mathematics (CNSM), and Agriculture (COA). This collaboration builds upon numerous joint projects and programs spanning many years.
KU delegates, Prof. Dr. Osman Sabri Kesbiç, Director of KU Central Research Laboratory, and Assistant Prof. Dr. Omer Deniz, Faculty at KU Veterinary Medicine, shared their expertise in sustainable aquaculture. In his opening remarks, Dr. Mahid M. Mangontarum, Director of MSIRC and OP Special Assistant, encouraged the participants to take full advantage of the opportunity, given that KU has one of the most advanced research facilities and laboratories to support MSU research projects and create impactful, community-beneficial initiatives. Prof. Melba M. Angni, IALO Director, and Dr. Fema M. Abamo, Vice Chancellor for Research, Extension, and Development, were also present at the event.
The seminar highlighted Turkey’s successful sustainable aquaculture model, detailing the evolution of net cage farming (including its three phases) and showcasing innovative technologies used to produce species such as Turkey Salmon. A key focus was the global impact of these practices, particularly in maintaining sustainability amidst climate change. The seminar provided crucial insights into adapting these strategies globally, promising advancements in sustainable aquaculture and contributing to worldwide food security. This collaboration reinforces the strong bond between MSU and KU, demonstrating a shared commitment to addressing global challenges through research, knowledge sharing, and sustainable practices.
The KU delegates’ engagement extends beyond the seminar. Tomorrow, they will meet with MSU’s Vice Chancellors for Research, Extension, and Development and Academic Affairs, along with deans and chairpersons, to discuss research collaborations, faculty and student exchanges, joint degree programs, and initiatives to enhance global academic standards. The delegates will also visit MSU-IIT and MSU-Naawan to explore further cooperation across the entire MSU system.
