The West Visayas State University (WVSU) celebrated International Students’ Day 2025 on November 14 at the WVSU Cultural Center, highlighting the theme “AI and Education: Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation”.
Organized by the DagYoung Student Ambassadors in partnership with the University of Antique (UA), Philippine Normal University (PNU), and Mohawk College, Canada, the celebration brought together students from WVSU’s main and external campuses, alongside delegates from partner institutions.
Leadership and International Support
WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz officially welcomed the participants, reaffirming the University’s commitment to global education and its mission to integrate international perspectives into Philippine higher learning. His message was followed by an inspiring note of support from Katie Burrows, Vice President of Mohawk College, who emphasized the critical role of cross-border partnerships in preparing students for a technology-driven world.
Exploring AI Through Multi-Disciplinary Perspectives
The event’s highlight was a multi-disciplinary panel discussion examining how artificial intelligence is reshaping education and redefining future skill demands.
Prof. Bryan Dayuta of Philippine Normal University opened the discourse by exploring AI and critical thinking, urging students to leverage technology to enhance—not replace—intellectual inquiry.
From WVSU’s College of Information and Communications Technology, Dr. Frank Elijorde discussed the emergence of human-AI fusion jobs and the competencies needed to thrive in these evolving fields.
Dr. Sammy Militante of the University of Antique shed light on the rising demand for AI literacy within the humanities, advocating for cross-disciplinary adaptability.
Adding a legal perspective, Atty. Regina Gustilo of the WVSU College of Law addressed the ethical and regulatory dimensions of AI, highlighting issues related to data privacy, accountability, and responsible use.
Student Ambassadors Take the Conversation Forward
Active participation from student leaders further enriched the dialogue, with insights coming from the DagYoung Student Ambassadors represented by Vice Chair Benz Dominique Delariman, the PNU InVoLB Student Ambassadors led by President Kobe Brylle Tolentino , and the UA Red Ambassadors. WVSU students who recently participated in the Canada ASEAN Seed Program also shared their student exchange experiences at Mohawk College, offering valuable perspectives on international learning and cross-cultural engagement. Their contributions added youthful energy to the discussion and reflected the growing global awareness among student ambassadors as they navigated the opportunities and challenges brought by AI.
Strengthening Institutional Partnerships
WVSU International and Local Linkages Office Director Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, University of Antique Director of International Affairs Ms. Jennylyn Omadio, and PNU Linkages and International Office Director Prof. Bryan Dayuta delivered a collective message of commitment. They reaffirmed their institutions’ shared pledge to promote inclusive internationalization, strengthen collaborative programs, and prepare learners with AI-ready skills for the global landscape.
A Closing Filled with Unity and Cultural Expression
The celebration culminated with a heartfelt rendition of the Solidarity Song performed by WVSU TeatroTayo, capturing the spirit of unity and shared purpose among the participants. The performance also served as a symbolic tribute to the student ambassadors whose efforts strengthened the collaboration and cultural exchange showcased throughout the event.
This year’s International Students’ Day emphasized the growing importance of global collaboration and AI literacy while underscoring the responsibility of educational institutions to preserve human agency in an era of rapid automation.
By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO
