In a bold step toward expanding its global reach, West Visayas State University (WVSU) hosted the WVSU IZN-Making and Taking Opportunities event on March 27, 2025, emphasizing its ongoing efforts to elevate international partnerships, academic excellence, and support for the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The event gathered students, faculty, and international interns for a day of enriching dialogues, presentations, and collaborative exchanges focused on global citizenship, cultural involvement, and cross-border academic opportunities.
Building Bridges Through IZN
The event commenced with a welcome address from Prof. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office (ILLO), who highlighted the importance of global engagement in shaping education and leadership for the future. In her opening remarks, Prof. Edel expressed WVSU’s commitment to fostering an environment where students not only excel academically but also develop as responsible global citizens ready to make meaningful societal contributions. Her speech reinforced the university’s dedication to internationalization as a core part of its mission, urging attendees to embrace opportunities for global collaboration.
“At WVSU, we are committed to creating an environment where our students not only excel academically but also develop as responsible global citizens ready to make meaningful contributions to society”, she said.
Sharing Global Engagement Experiences
One of the most engaging segments of the event featured students and faculty sharing their personal experiences from academic exchanges and cross-cultural immersion programs:
SEA-Teacher Project, Universitas Ahmad Dahlan (Indonesia): Students Feb Anthony G. Rizano, Allizon A. Bernaldez, and Nina Elah S. Subano shared how this unique experience has significantly shaped their professional growth and broadened their global perspectives on teaching.
Thu Dau Mot University (TDMU), Vietnam: Angel Tigas, Fermen Tirador, and Jonabel Abarinto spoke about their academic and cultural immersion in Vietnam, discussing how the experience deepened their understanding of global education.
Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED): Reeman Singh and Von Ashley Chichirita shared insights from their experience in the Computer Engineering Technology – Mechatronic Systems program, detailing how their skills were enhanced through this cross-border opportunity.
American Language Village (ALV), Taiwan: Maria Fe Tiane, Zoe Marie Baaya, and Le Gerlaine Mondejar reflected on their transformative language-learning experiences in Taiwan, emphasizing the importance of language acquisition for cultural understanding and global engagement.
EDIW E-Bridge Volunteers: Andrei Jan Tono and Jamaica Gandecila presented their volunteer experiences, highlighting the value of international collaboration through volunteerism.
Kasetsart University, Thailand: Justin June P. Cerillo and JC C. Fernandez shared the impact of their agricultural exchange programs in Thailand on both their personal and academic growth.
Dr. Ma. Pilar S. Malata, Dean of the Office of Student Affairs (OSA), also shared her transformative experience during her graduate studies in the United States.
Navigating Home-Based and Cross-Border Opportunities
Dr. Laurene Lock Chua-Garcia, Managing Director of Strategy & Innovation at Picasso Management Group Inc., delivered a keynote titled “Home-Based and Cross-Border Involvement for Global Citizenship.” Dr. Chua-Garcia emphasized the necessity of preparing students for a highly interconnected world where global citizenship and cross-border opportunities are essential for both personal and professional success.
“By fostering cross-border opportunities and supporting home-based involvement, we ensure that students are equipped to navigate and succeed in a globalized, interconnected world”, she said.
Dr. Chua-Garcia’s speech resonated with attendees as she highlighted how international collaborations, exchanges, and volunteer work allow students to develop the skills and perspectives necessary for success in the modern world. She urged both students and institutions to embrace these opportunities as essential pathways to building a more sustainable and inclusive future.
Her session provided valuable insights into how universities like WVSU can strengthen their role in shaping global citizens who are not only knowledgeable but also actively engaged in making a positive impact on society.
WVSU’s Commitment to Sustainability and Research Excellence
A key segment of the event, WVSU Sustainability: Mapping of WVSU Publications and Theses that Address the SDGs Through WIRED++, presented by Stephen B. Alayon, BLIS Program Coordinator, showcased how WVSU’s academic research contributes to the achievement of the SDGs. This session highlighted the university’s growing collection of academic works addressing global challenges, particularly in sustainability and innovation.
Exploring Culture Through Global Learning
The event also celebrated the cultural exchange programs at the heart of WVSU’s internationalization strategy. Enzo Muñoz from the MEEF Master’s Degree program in Teaching Abroad at INSPÉ de Toulouse, Université Toulouse II, shared his experiences in French culture and education, offering a unique perspective on the benefits of international teaching exchanges.
Additionally, Mertxe Mendibe Lázaro and María Pilar Arraiz Torre of the Basque Government’s Global Training Grant Programme discussed Spain’s global training initiatives, emphasizing how these programs enrich students’ academic and cultural knowledge.
Looking Ahead
With the successful execution of WVSU IZN-Making and Taking Opportunities, West Visayas State University once again demonstrated its leadership in global engagement, academic excellence, and international collaboration. The event not only showcased the university’s commitment to shaping the leaders of tomorrow but also reaffirmed its role as a center for global citizenship and sustainable development.
As WVSU continues to expand its global presence, this event marks a significant milestone in its journey toward becoming a hub for international education, equipping students to engage meaningfully in the global community.
By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO