Dr. Opiso, an alumnus of both institutions, holds a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from Central Mindanao University in 2003, a Doctoral Degree in Geo-environmental Engineering from Hokkaido University in 2010, and completed a post-doctoral research fellowship at the same institution in 2016, was invited by the Division of Sustainable Resources Engineering to speak on responsible mining practices.

The lecture, titled “Towards Responsible Mining Practices: The Case of Artisanal Gold Mine Tailings and Nickel Laterite Mine Out Areas in Mindanao, Philippines,” was held at B31, Faculty of Engineering. Dr. Opiso discussed the current state of gold and nickel mining in the Philippines, focusing on environmental impacts and management strategies. He also shared his research on mine waste valorization.

The event was attended by graduate students from various countries, including African nations, Korea, Japan, Indonesia, and China. It was conducted in a hybrid format, with about 20 students attending in person and 10 joining online via Zoom from a national research institute in Japan. The lecture concluded with a lively discussion with the faculty and students from the Division of Sustainable Resources Engineering.

Dr. Opiso’s visit began with a welcome lunch hosted by Assistant Professor Takahiko Arima from the Chemical Resources Laboratory, who also facilitated meetings for research and student internship collaboration with Professor Otake Tsubasa from the Environmental Geology Laboratory, Associate Professor Isobe Koichi from the Analytical Geomechanics Laboratory, and Associate Professor Yogarajah Elaknes from the Chemical Resources Laboratory.

Following his lecture, Dr. Opiso enjoyed a tour around Hokkaido University and the nearby tourist spots in Sapporo before returning to the Philippines.

This engagement underscores the academic and research ties between CMU and Hokkaido University, enhancing CMU’s reputation in the international academic community and providing valuable opportunities for collaboration and knowledge exchange [Iyren Dalipe Neri with information from Dr. Einstine M. Opiso, faculty, Civil Engineering Department, College of Engineering, CMU]