USM and The Hague University Forge Partnership
January 30, 2025
The University of St. Martin (USM) and The Hague University of Applied Sciences (THUAS) have officially entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for a second time, to strengthen collaboration in education, research, and community development.
This partnership marks a significant step toward advancing academic excellence and fostering global connections for both institutions.
Signed this month, the MOU outlines a framework for cooperative efforts, including joint research initiatives, faculty and student exchanges, and the development of innovative academic programs. By combining the strengths of both universities, the agreement aims to create opportunities that will benefit students, faculty, and the broader community of Sint Maarten and the Netherlands.
USM President Dr. Antonio Carmona Baez described the partnership as an excellent opportunity for USM and students from the island.
“In comparison to the first MOU signed on 2019, this second official memorandum of institutional collaboration seeks to support students in a seamless transition and transfer of credits from degree programs at USM to THUAS. We will be looking at 2+2 programs for bachelor’s degrees in certain areas of study but also other formulas, including joint degree programs, exchange programs for both student and staff, and research. In the Netherlands, the universities of applied sciences (HBOs) are taking up a leadership role in curriculum development as well as in research, which was previously reserved for the so-called science universities (WO). So, we are proud to partner with THUAS as we witness this transformation in Dutch academia. More importantly, THUAS is a popular destination for many students from Sint Maarten and the Dutch Caribbean generally. This MOU is an excellent opportunity for both our local institution as well our students who plan on furthering their studies in the Netherlands.”
The Hague University of Applied Sciences is recognized for its emphasis on applied research, global perspectives, and fostering innovation across various disciplines. This partnership provides USM students with access to a broader network of academic resources, expertise, and exchange opportunities, ensuring that they are well-prepared to excel in an increasingly interconnected world.
Specific areas of collaboration outlined in the MOU include joint research initiatives, emphasizing collaborative research projects addressing global and regional challenges, with a focus on sustainability, innovation, and social impact; student and faculty exchanges, focusing on opportunities for cultural and academic exchange and enriching the learning experience for students and providing professional development for faculty; and curriculum development.
“What makes USM interesting for THUAS is the fact that our institution, like most in the Dutch Caribbean, does not distinguish between science and applied sciences, both levels can be studied at the same institution, while hosting scientific research,” said Dr. Carmona. “Also, with this collaboration, we are very happy to support our USM graduates who migrate to the Netherlands to attain a higher level of study.”, he added.
This partnership builds on USM’s commitment to fostering academic innovation, while addressing local and regional challenges through education and research. It represents a step forward in strengthening the university’s global reach.
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Signed this month, the MOU outlines a framework for cooperative efforts, including joint research initiatives, faculty and student exchanges, and the development of innovative academic programs. By combining the strengths of both universities, the agreement aims to create opportunities that will benefit students, faculty, and the broader community of Sint Maarten and the Netherlands.
USM President Dr. Antonio Carmona Baez described the partnership as an excellent opportunity for USM and students from the island.
“In comparison to the first MOU signed on 2019, this second official memorandum of institutional collaboration seeks to support students in a seamless transition and transfer of credits from degree programs at USM to THUAS. We will be looking at 2+2 programs for bachelor’s degrees in certain areas of study but also other formulas, including joint degree programs, exchange programs for both student and staff, and research. In the Netherlands, the universities of applied sciences (HBOs) are taking up a leadership role in curriculum development as well as in research, which was previously reserved for the so-called science universities (WO). So, we are proud to partner with THUAS as we witness this transformation in Dutch academia. More importantly, THUAS is a popular destination for many students from Sint Maarten and the Dutch Caribbean generally. This MOU is an excellent opportunity for both our local institution as well our students who plan on furthering their studies in the Netherlands.”
The Hague University of Applied Sciences is recognized for its emphasis on applied research, global perspectives, and fostering innovation across various disciplines. This partnership provides USM students with access to a broader network of academic resources, expertise, and exchange opportunities, ensuring that they are well-prepared to excel in an increasingly interconnected world.
Specific areas of collaboration outlined in the MOU include joint research initiatives, emphasizing collaborative research projects addressing global and regional challenges, with a focus on sustainability, innovation, and social impact; student and faculty exchanges, focusing on opportunities for cultural and academic exchange and enriching the learning experience for students and providing professional development for faculty; and curriculum development.
“What makes USM interesting for THUAS is the fact that our institution, like most in the Dutch Caribbean, does not distinguish between science and applied sciences, both levels can be studied at the same institution, while hosting scientific research,” said Dr. Carmona. “Also, with this collaboration, we are very happy to support our USM graduates who migrate to the Netherlands to attain a higher level of study.”, he added.
This partnership builds on USM’s commitment to fostering academic innovation, while addressing local and regional challenges through education and research. It represents a step forward in strengthening the university’s global reach.
Latest News →
