04 March 2016 – In a bid to fast-track faculty and student exchanges and expand cooperation on research, the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) and Philippine Embassy representatives held back-to-back meetings from February 8 to 15 with German universities and institutions specializing in good governance, public policy and administration and the training of civil servants.

The Embassy coordinated the meetings of Ms. Merliza Makinano, Managing Director of the DAP’s International Marketing Center, with current and potential partner institutions across four German Federal States. 

Ms. Makinano was assisted by Mr. Ruperto Aparri III, Assistant Director for International Relations and Institutional Strategic Partnerships. Also present was Second Secretary and Consul Rona Beth G. Goce.

Areas of cooperation were mapped out during discussions with university rectors and professors of the German University of Administrative Sciences Speyer, University of Applied Sciences Kehl, Harz University of Applied Sciences and the Hertie School of Governance in Berlin. The meetings also covered opportunities for scholarships, further training and internships to both countries.

During the meeting with the Director of Berlin’s College of Public Administration (VAk), the two sides exchanged ideas on continuing education, executive training and modernization of administration.

The DAP briefed their German counterparts on DAP’s current priorities and projects, including developing institutional linkages with international partners. The organization, which is under the Office of the President, aims to strengthen the competitiveness and effectivity of the Philippine public sector through customized courses and programs. It is also the National Productivity Organization of the Philippines.  END