Month: November 2024

In a world where interconnectedness is no longer an option but a necessity, education plays a crucial role in fostering global citizens capable of navigating and contributing to a rapidly changing society. At the forefront of this mission is Education for an Interdependent World (EDIW), a European non-governmental organization (NGO) that designs and implements educational programs aimed at cultivating individuals who are compassionate, well-informed, and actively engaged with the world around them.

With a mission to inspire respect, creativity, and responsibility among learners, EDIW has forged a significant partnership with West Visayas State University (WVSU) in the Philippines. This collaboration leverages the power of education to transform individuals and societies, making a tangible impact on communities across the globe.

International Digital Learning: Bridging Cultures Through Education

Founded on the belief that education has the power to unite people across borders and cultures, EDIW focuses on creating learning experiences that foster empathy, cross-cultural understanding, and global awareness. Through a combination of formal and non-formal educational initiatives, EDIW aims to develop well-rounded individuals who are not only knowledgeable but also equipped with the skills and values needed to contribute to a more just, peaceful, and sustainable world.

Central to this mission is the development of global citizenship, a concept that emphasizes the interconnectedness of all people and the shared responsibility to address global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation.

Five Phases of Teaching Excellence: Reaching New Horizons

Since its inception in 2023, EDIW has successfully completed five phases of teaching excellence, with each phase building on the successes and lessons of the previous one. These phases have spanned multiple regions, reaching students in India and several provinces in the Philippines, including Bacolod, Manila, and Davao.

Each phase is designed as an eight-week program that focuses on enhancing students’ literacy, English language proficiency, and scientific knowledge while fostering a deep appreciation for cultural diversity. By blending academic learning with cultural exchange, EDIW creates an immersive educational experience that empowers students to see themselves as part of a global community.

The most recent milestone, the 5th phase, launched on November 23, 2024, marked a significant expansion of the program’s reach and impact. As the program continues to evolve, the upcoming 6th phase, scheduled to begin in February 2025, promises to further broaden the scope of EDIW’s initiatives and bring in new student volunteers eager to contribute to this transformative mission.

International Collaboration: Strengthening Global Educational Partnerships

A cornerstone of EDIW’s success is its commitment to international collaboration. Over the years, the organization has built strong partnerships with educators and institutions from the Philippines, India, Spain, Ireland, and various other European countries.

These collaborations have not only enhanced the quality and reach of EDIW’s programs but have also fostered a sense of shared purpose among educators from diverse cultural backgrounds. A significant milestone in this collaborative effort was the series of face-to-face meetings between teacher volunteers from different countries. These in-person interactions have strengthened EDIW’s community bonds, allowing for the exchange of best practices and the development of innovative teaching strategies that address the unique needs of students in different regions.

The Volunteers: Empowering the Next Generation

Behind every successful educational initiative are the passionate individuals who bring it to life. The eBridge program, a flagship initiative of EDIW, is no exception. These volunteers, often juggling their studies and teaching responsibilities, embody the spirit of service and dedication.

Leony de Justo: Bridging Dreams into Reality

“Why are you an eBridge volunteer? Because I want to make a difference. I want to teach, touch, and inspire the lives of children and make them feel that there are people like us (eBridge volunteers) who are committed to helping and guiding them to unleash their full potential. Here at EDIW, we are not just teacher volunteers; we serve as a BRIDGE that can transport the dreams of our children into reality.”

Leonie de Justo, a third-year Bachelor of Secondary Education major in English- 3A student at WVSU, epitomizes the mission of EDIW. Her passion for teaching and her commitment to empowering young minds make her an invaluable asset to the program. Leonie believes that education is a powerful tool for change, and through her volunteer work, she aims to be a catalyst for that change. By connecting with her students on a personal level, she helps them build confidence and realize their potential.

Kyla Joy Paganpan: Inspiring Potential and Shaping Futures

“I chose to become an eBridge volunteer because I believe it will greatly enhance my capabilities as a pre-service teacher while making a meaningful impact on my students. This role is not just about teaching; it’s about inspiring students to recognize and unlock their potential. I see this opportunity as a way to positively contribute to their educational journey while also expanding my own horizons and helping to shape a brighter future for the next generation.”

Kyla Joy Paganpan, a second-year BSED English student, joined the eBridge program with a vision to grow as an educator while making a difference in the lives of her students. For Kyla, the experience of being an eBridge volunteer is both a personal and professional journey. She views the program as an opportunity to develop her teaching skills, broaden her cultural understanding, and inspire a new generation of learners to achieve their goals.

The Impact of eBridge: Transforming Lives Across Borders

The eBridge program goes beyond traditional classroom teaching. It creates a bridge of understanding between cultures, fostering empathy and global awareness among both volunteers and students. By providing learners in marginalized communities with access to quality education, the program empowers them to break the cycle of poverty and envision a brighter future.

A Growing Community of Teacher Volunteers

One of EDIW’s most notable achievements is the cultivation of a sustainable and expanding community of teacher volunteers. Today, the organization boasts a network of over 300-400 members from across the globe. This diverse community includes both seasoned educators and new student teacher volunteers who bring fresh perspectives and energy to the program.

These volunteers come from a wide range of national and international campuses, contributing their time, skills, and cultural knowledge to create a rich and dynamic learning environment for students. The continuous growth of this community ensures that EDIW remains a vibrant and evolving organization capable of meeting the challenges of global education.

Empowering Volunteers Through Orientation Workshops

Recognizing the importance of equipping its volunteers with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in an intercultural teaching environment, EDIW conducted a comprehensive Volunteer Orientation Workshop in September 2023.

This workshop provided new members with essential training in teaching methodologies, cross-cultural communication, and classroom management. By preparing volunteers to navigate the complexities of intercultural education, EDIW ensures that its programs are both effective and culturally sensitive.

Weekly Teaching Sessions: Bridging Cultures Through Education

A defining feature of EDIW’s programs is its weekly teaching sessions, where volunteers engage students in interactive learning experiences that blend academic instruction with cultural exchange.

During these one-hour sessions, volunteers use a variety of media—including videos, music, and storytelling—to introduce students to different cultures and perspectives. These sessions not only enhance students’ academic skills but also foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity.

Each session concludes with assessments to track students’ progress, and in the final week, volunteers share personal messages and reflections, leaving a lasting impact on the students.

Recent Milestones and Future Directions

The successful launch of the 5th phase on November 23, 2024, marked a significant milestone in EDIW’s journey. This phase saw an increase in both the number of students reached and the diversity of teaching methods employed.

Looking ahead, the upcoming 6th phase in February 2025 promises to build on this success, with plans to expand the program’s reach and incorporate new technological tools to enhance the learning experience. EDIW remains committed to its mission of creating a global community of literacy volunteers who empower children through education.

Transforming Lives and Communities Through Education

The partnership between EDIW and WVSU stands as a testament to the transformative power of education. Together, they have created a model of global education that not only equips students with the skills they need to succeed academically but also fosters a sense of empathy, responsibility, and global citizenship.

As EDIW continues to grow and evolve, it remains dedicated to its vision of a world where education serves as a bridge that connects people across cultures, inspires creativity, and empowers individuals to make a positive impact on their communities and the world at large.

November 25, 2024 – In celebration of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and the Philippines, Kim Hyon Du, the Minister-Counsellor of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea to the Philippines, delivered a special lecture at West Visayas State University (WVSU) to discuss the longstanding partnership and future prospects between the two nations.

The event was attended by university key officials, students, faculty members, and representatives from both countries, showcased educational dialogues, and a shared vision of fostering deeper understanding. As part of the celebration, WVSU reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing Korean-Philippine ties through academic exchanges, scholarships, and cooperative programs that promote cultural awareness.

Kim highlighted the significant progress made over the past 75 years in diplomatic, economic, and cultural exchanges between Korea and the Philippines. He reflected on how these strong bilateral relations have contributed to mutual growth, underscoring the importance of fostering people-to-people connections and cultural understanding.

“The ties between Korea and the Philippines have strengthened over the decades, not just through diplomacy, but also through cultural exchange and people-to-people connections”, he said. He stressed the importance of education and cultural diplomacy as critical pillars that will define the future relationship between the two countries.

Furthermore, Minister-Counsellor Kim also spoke about the evolving global landscape and the need for stronger partnerships in education, technology, and cultural diplomacy. He reiterated Korea’s commitment to supporting the Philippines in its educational and economic endeavors, particularly in empowering young Filipinos through scholarships and study opportunities in Korea.

The celebration at West Visayas State University was a testament to the enduring friendship between Korea and the Philippines, setting a hopeful tone for the next chapter in bilateral relations.

To note, WVSU has been officially designated as a King Sejong Institute (KSI) in Western Visayas. KSI is an international education program supported by the South Korean government, dedicated to promoting the Korean language and culture around the world. This designation allows WVSU to serve as a regional hub for Korean language education, offering courses and cultural programs that aim to foster deeper understanding and appreciation of Korean heritage.

Jakarta, Indonesia, November 20-22, 2024 — Carlo Eric Villas, a fourth-year Bachelor of Arts in Political Science student from West Visayas State University (WVSU), made a significant mark on the international stage by representing the university and the Philippines at the ASEAN Youth Conference 2024, brought together young leaders and change-makers from across the region to discuss challenges and opportunities in multilateral cooperation.

ASEAN Youth Conference 2024: Fostering Cooperation Among ASEAN Youth

The ASEAN Youth Conference 2024 gathered around 100 aspiring youth leaders and change-makers from ASEAN countries and beyond. This year’s conference aimed to enhance collaboration between young leaders, encouraging them to share insights on how to strengthen multilateral ties across ASEAN member states. Participants also focused on increasing youth participation in creating tangible impacts in governance, sustainable development, and cultural exchange.

Throughout the conference, delegates engaged in workshops, panel discussions, and forum, focusing on ASEAN’s pillars—Political-Security, Economic, and Socio-Cultural. The highlight of the conference was the collaborative effort to draft the ASEAN Youth Vision, a document that captures the aspirations of the region’s youth and will be submitted to the ASEAN Secretariat for consideration in future policies.

Best Delegate: A Symbol of Excellence

Among the many highlights of the ASEAN Youth Conference 2024, one of the most notable achievements was Carlo Eric Villas being recognized with the Best Delegate Award. This accolade is awarded to delegates who demonstrate outstanding leadership, insight, and dedication throughout the conference. Villas’ exceptional performance during discussions and his ability to articulate Filipino perspectives on critical regional issues earned him high praise from fellow participants and mentors.

Villas was particularly noted for his contributions to discussions on political-security cooperation in Southeast Asia, emphasizing the importance of youth engagement in diplomacy and policy-making. His passion for inclusive governance and sustainable development shone throughout the conference, leading to his well-deserved recognition.

Villa’s Reflections: A Proud Moment for WVSU

Reflecting on his experience, Villas expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent WVSU and the Philippines at such a prestigious event.

“This experience has been nothing short of incredible, and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to represent our ideas and collaborate with such passionate young leaders from across the region. We hope that these youth-driven recommendations would be reflected in future policy decisions in the region and that ASEAN would continue to provide more opportunities for the youth to be involved in shaping the region’s future”, he said.

Villas emphasized that the conference strengthened his resolve to continue advocating for youth participation in local and regional governance.

The WVSU community celebrated Villas’ achievement, recognizing it as a testament to the caliber of education and leadership training provided by the institution. The university’s administration extended their congratulations, noting that Villas’ success highlights WVSU’s commitment to nurturing students who are prepared to make a positive impact on a global scale.

Building the ASEAN Youth Vision

One of the key outcomes of the ASEAN Youth Conference 2024 was the collaborative creation of the ASEAN Youth Vision. Delegates, guided by facilitators and mentors, addressed pressing issues under the three ASEAN pillars. Their recommendations focused on improving regional cooperation, fostering economic growth, promoting cultural exchange, and enhancing regional security.

Carlo Eric Villas’ recognition as the Best Delegate underscored the vital role that young leaders play in ASEAN’s progress. His achievements at the ASEAN Youth Conference 2024 reflect the growing influence of youth in regional governance and diplomacy, paving the way for a more inclusive and forward-thinking ASEAN community.

In a landmark achievement for Philippine higher education, West Visayas State University (WVSU) has been named one of the 12 universities selected for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID)-funded U.S.-Philippines Partnership for Skills, Innovation, and Lifelong Learning (UPSKILL) Transformation Accelerator Program. This decision comes after a selection process involving 96 Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) across the country.

The chosen universities make up the first cohort outside of the United States, marking a significant milestone for the Philippine educational system. This inclusion is a testament to the ongoing efforts to elevate the quality and global competitiveness of the country’s higher education sector.

WVSU: The Academy for Disruptive Leadership

WVSU renowned for its commitment to excellence in education, positioned to spearhead transformative educational practices that will shape future leaders in innovation and technology. The project “Academy for Disruptive Leadership” has been selected, setting a new benchmark in Philippine higher education. Dr. Peter Ernie D. Paris, Vice President for Administration and Finance (VPAF) participated in a series of capacity building workshops from project ideation, design, and implementation.

“We design and develop the future persons. We design and develop the future of communities. We, universities, also design and develop the future of global communities”, said Dr. Paris.

Through its participation in the UPSKILL program, WVSU aims to strengthen its mission of providing quality education that fosters leadership, innovation, and social responsibility. The university plans to leverage the program’s resources to enhance curriculum development, improve faculty skills, and expand research initiatives, ultimately benefiting students and the broader community. This opportunity not only brings prestige to WVSU but also promises to empower its faculty and students through access to international resources, training, and expertise.

Significance of Philippine HEIs

This selection is a notable achievement for the Philippine Higher Education Institutions, as it highlights the growing capacity and quality of local universities on a global stage. The initiative is anticipated to spark further development within the country’s educational system, aligning it more closely with international standards and enhancing opportunities for collaboration with U.S. universities.

The UPSKILL Transformation Accelerator Program represents a new chapter in the university, paving the way for increased innovation, global partnerships, and sustainable development within the academic community. Through the UPSKILL program, WVSU will not only enhance their academic frameworks but also contribute to the broader goal of equipping students with the tools they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving global landscape.