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BIOPHARMACEUTICAL firm AstraZeneca Philippines has signed a partnership with De La Salle University (DLSU) to boost research and talent development within the school’s Knowledge, Innovation, Science and Technology (KIST) Park in Laguna.

In a statement on Thursday, AstraZeneca said the agreement seeks to establish the country’s first campus-based health innovation hub.

Both parties plan to collaborate on internships, training programs, and academic-industry engagements to address the country’s healthcare needs.

Lotis Ramin, AstraZeneca Philippines Country president, said the partnership would help improve patient outcomes, such as earlier detection and accessible care for noncommunicable diseases.

“Through this partnership with De La Salle University, we are bringing together scientific expertise and emerging talent to create an environment where ideas can be developed and applied to real-world healthcare challenges,” she was quoted as saying.

The partnership is also expected to help ensure that DLSU students, faculty, and research initiatives align with industry needs, the university said.

“By bringing together academe, industry, and research, we hope to create an environment where innovation can move beyond theory and contribute meaningfully to society,” DLSU President and Chancellor Bernard S. Oca said.

The DLSU KIST Park covers five hectares of the DLSU’s 51-hectare science and technology campus in Canlubang, Laguna.

The Laguna campus is also the first Philippine private higher education institution registered as a KIST ecozone under the Philippine Economic Zone Authority. — Beatriz Marie D. Cruz

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