University of Antique (UA) engaged in exploratory talks with Harper Adams University (HAU), the United Kingdom’s most renowned institution in agricultural education and research, as part of the significant steps toward advancing its internationalization agenda.

The meeting focused on exploring strategic collaborations in faculty and student exchange, instruction, research partnerships, Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) programs, possible Transnational Education (TNE) models, and other academic linkages that foster global engagement and knowledge exchange.

Harper Adams University, whose Chancellor is Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, holds a distinguished reputation as the UK’s No. 1 university for Agriculture and Forestry Employer Reputation according to the QS World University Rankings. Recognized as one of Europe’s leading agricultural universities, Harper Adams has long been at the forefront of agricultural innovation, sustainability, and applied research that addresses real-world global challenges.

The exploratory meeting brought together key officials from Harper Adams University, led by Vice-Chancellor Professor Ken Sloan, along with Robin Halley (Chief Global Impact Officer), Dawn Arnold (Associate Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research), Steven Barrett (Director of Educational Partnerships), Lynn McIntyre (Interim Director of Harper Food Innovation), Ian Moorcroft (Head of Department, Engineering), Greg Roswell (Deputy Head of Department, Engineering), John Donaldson (Assistant Head of Department – Animal Production Section), Mitch Cook (Principal Lecturer), Sam Wane (Senior Lecturer, Engineering), Louisa Dines (Principal Lecturer in Agronomy), Andy Wilcox (Head of Agriculture and Environment), and Yatin Gupta (International Manager).

Representing the University of Antique were Dr. Pablo S. Crespo Jr. (University President), Dr. Jelyn O. Alentajan (Vice President for Research, Extension, and Extension), and Nicasio A. Pimentel III (Faculty Member, College of Arts and Sciences). The discussions centered on identifying areas of mutual interest and developing collaborative frameworks that align with both universities’ missions to contribute to sustainable development through education, research, and innovation.

This engagement was made possible through the strong partnership and invaluable support of the British Council Philippines, under the leadership of Country Director Ms. Lotus Postrado, whose continued collaboration with the University of Antique has opened doors for meaningful international linkages. The British Council has been instrumental in connecting Philippine higher education institutions with leading global universities—helping nurture a shared vision of internationalization and inclusive academic growth.

The University of Antique’s dialogue with Harper Adams University marks another milestone in its journey toward building global partnerships that empower local communities through education and innovation. By aligning with world-class institutions like Harper Adams, UA strengthens its commitment to producing graduates and research outputs that are globally competent yet deeply rooted in local relevance—bridging the gap between local progress and global excellence.

This international engagement is not only the aspiration of the University of Antique but also a shared vision of the leaders of the Province of Antique—Senator Loren Legarda, Congressman Antonio “AA” Legarda Jr., and Governor Paolo S. Javier—who have been steadfast in supporting initiatives that elevate the province through education, innovation, and global linkages. Their collective leadership continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to ensuring that Antique takes its rightful place on the global stage, grounded in sustainability and inclusive progress.