In line with its commitment to academic excellence and its vision to be a globally-recognized institution of learning, West Visayas State University (WVSU) International and Local Linkages Office conducted a collaborative training workshop on ASEAN Citizenship Goals: The WVSU IZN Retooling for Top Management and Staff-Role on Prioritizing IZN Mandates and the importance of IZN in the Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) on Oct. 11, 2024.
Participants, hailing from diverse educational, administrative units, key officials, Deans, IZN Coordinators and staff of WVSU engaged in discussions and practical exercises.
In her opening remarks, Prof. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director, WVSU International and Local Linkages Office emphasized the need to further accelerate the IZN program and harmonize initiatives.
“There is no stopping us for the WVSU Internationalization is fighting for its place, first and foremost, in southeast Asia. For WVSU, being part of the ASEAN framework provides opportunities for exchanges, collaborations, and access to resources that enhance academic experience. Thus, the top management and the key personnel who have the power in implementing the strategic plans are called to this challenge,” Prof. Edel said.
Under the guidance of esteemed resource speaker, Prof. Bryan Dayuta, Philippine Normal University’s Director of International Affairs and Linkages, the participants were shared with knowledge on concepts, legal bases, and university pathways crucial for facilitating internationalization within higher education institutions. He first expounded the concept of internationalization, lifting from the CMO No. 55, s. 2016; the importance of internationalization globally, nationally, and institutionally; and the positioning of internationalization.
The event served as an avenue for participants to critically examine their IZN plans, and through the constructive feedback from the resource speaker, they were able to refine and improve their strategies in alignment with the colleges’ and campuses’ goals, contributing to the overall success of the internationalization program at WVSU.
Furthermore Prof. Bryan also underlined the structure and functions of International Relations Office, and elucidated guidelines for initiating international programs.
Additionally, attendees gained insights into policies, strategies, and quality assurance initiatives tailored to internationalization efforts.
The insights and strategies discussed during the seminar are set to significantly enhance WVSU’s global competencies and key directions for the current academic year and finalize WVSU’s Strategic Development Plan for 2026-2030.
| Written by Gladwyn Gustilo
