The Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) held a hybrid Testimonial Ceremony on 1 August 2024 to honor its 42 graduating scholars. The event celebrated the achievements of 38 full Master of Science and PhD scholars and four PhD Research scholars. Nine graduating scholars attended in person and were joined by their families, friends, and SEARCA staff at the SEARCA headquarters, while the rest of the graduates joined virtually. Of the 38, 25 were supported by SEARCA's collaboration with the German Academic Exchange Service or DAAD, Universiti Putra Malaysia, National Taiwan University, Agropolis Fondation in France, and Sejong University in South Korea.
In her welcome message, Dr. Nur Azura Binti Adam, the Deputy Director for Programs of SEARCA, congratulated the graduates for reaching this significant milestone in their academic careers. She added that their commitment to bringing a transformational mindset to their respective countries and elevating the state of agriculture and rural development in Southeast Asia fills SEARCA with pride.
Dr. Glenn Gregorio, the Center Director, emphasized the importance of perseverance and lifelong learning, saying, "Today, you are now an addition to the brains and muscles of society. Armed with your higher degrees and the character that your universities have nurtured in you, you are ready to lead the next generation with bigger dreams and visions."
Based on academic grade point average, duration of studies in the degree program, papers presented in international conferences, publications in scientific journals, academic awards or recognitions received, and other curricular activities and engagements, SEARCA awarded the Outstanding Masters and Doctoral scholars for the SEARCA scholarship graduates of FY 2023-24 to:
- Mr. Muhammad Yusril Hardiansyah B, Master of Global Agriculture Technology and Genomic Science, National Taiwan University, and
- Mr. Akhmad Zamroni, PhD in Environmental Science, University of the Philippines Los Baños. He also received a certificate of recognition for completing his PhD on time.
Special Awards were also given to 10 other scholars who completed their degrees on time.
- Mr. Cheav Chhuon, Cambodia, MS in Veterinary Medicine, UPLB
- Mr. Miguelito F. Isip, Philippines, Master of Global Agriculture Technology and Genomic Science, NTU
- Mr. John Louie P. Baligad, Philippines, Master of Global Agriculture Technology and Genomic Science, NTU
- Mr. Aeron R. Mojica, Philippines, Master of Global Agriculture Technology and Genomic Science, NTU
- Mr. Jason O. Gica, Philippines, Master of Global Agriculture Technology and Genomic Science, NTU
- Ms. Carla Kristine M. Silva, Philippines, Master of Global Agriculture Technology and Genomic Science, NTU
- Ms. Phong Ngoc Hai Trieu, Vietnam, Master of Global Agriculture Technology and Genomic Science, NTU
- Mr. Reymond Denver Q. Buenaseda, Philippines, MS in Applied Economics for Agriculture and Environment, KU
- Ms. Ayu Septi Anggraeni, Indonesia, PhD in Nutrition and Feed Sciences, IPB University
- Mr. Saiphou Lormaisim, Lao PDR, PhD in Animal Science, UPLB
The ceremony's highlights included testimonials from the graduating scholars who shared their academic journeys. Mr. Muhammad Yusril expressed his sincerest gratitude to SEARCA. He advised his fellow scholars, saying, "As we move forward, let us carry with us the lessons we have learned. Let us remember that success is not measured by the awards we receive but by the impact we make on the world around us, especially in the agricultural sector. Let us strive to be compassionate, innovative, and leaders who will inspire change." Likewise, Mr. Akhmad Zamroni pointed out the value of higher education, highlighting the valuable scholarship opportunity for which scholars should be grateful. The various activities they participated in at the university, such as project work, research, discussions, and presentations, all contributed to developing their critical thinking skills. Mr. Zamroni added, "This process of honing critical thinking involves formulating problems, developing appropriate methods, analyzing research findings, and drawing conclusions."
Dr. Asdi Agustar, the President of the Regional SEARCA Alumni Association (RSAA), administered the RSAA Oath of Membership to the new graduates and delivered the closing message. In his message, Dr. Agustar reiterated that the accomplishments of the scholars are not solely due to their struggles but rather the result of the collective contributions of many parties, directly or indirectly, that helped them achieve their dreams.
Since 1967, SEARCA has awarded 1,962 scholarships to Southeast Asian nationals, of whom 1,710 have already completed their degrees.