The ASCEND Project’s representative, ASEAN Engr. Albert Samuela, recently met with University of the Philippines Los Baños Technology Transfer and Business Development Office (UPLB-TTBDO) Director Catherine Amante, to explore best practices for connecting student research with industry partners

The discussion focused on UPLB-TTBDO’s systematic approach to fostering collaborations, including intellectual property management, commercialization strategies, and stakeholder engagement. Samuela sought insights to reinforce ASCEND’s goal of bridging higher education institutions (HEIs) and industry players to boost innovation and workforce readiness.

The meeting highlighted UPLB-TTBDO’s track record in transforming student theses and research projects into market-ready solutions through structured partnerships. Amante shared essential steps, such as identifying industry needs, securing agreements, and providing mentorship to researchers.

Samuela emphasized that these strategies would guide ASCEND’s mission to develop sustainable academe-industry ties. “By learning from established programs like UPLB-TTBDO, we can create a more robust framework for nationwide collaboration,” he said.