On February 17, 2025, the Pre-Service Student Teacher Exchange in Southeast Asia (SEA-Teacher) Project concluded another successful year with its Exit Conference at West Visayas State University (WVSU).
The event celebrated the achievements of three Indonesian student teachers from Universitas Ahmad Dahlan (UAD)-Shazwina Syfia Aulia, Nada Auliya Rahmah, and Alifia Aminatuzzahra who participated in a month-long practicum at Integrated Laboratory School (ILS), which began on January 23, 2025.
The exchange program, part of the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO), provided these future educators with the opportunity to gain hands-on teaching experience while immersing themselves in the culture of the Philippines.
Dr. Ricky M. Magno, Dean of the College of Education (COE), welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of cross-cultural educational experiences.
“I hope the experiences that you have learned from our university is something that you would cherish and would somehow give an impact on your holistic development as one of the teachers in the future,” Dr. Magno said.
Edel Carmela S. Subong-Csoka, Director of the International and Local Linkages Office, highlighted the significance of international collaboration in teacher education.
“To our exchange students, you have not only contributed to the academic growth of WVSU but have also helped build stronger connections between our institutions. Your presence has bridged the gap between our cultures, and the lessons we’ve learned from one another will continue to guide us in the years ahead”, she said.
The students themselves shared heartfelt reflections on their time at WVSU. They spoke about their academic growth, particularly in their respective fields of study, including Guidance and Counseling, Mathematics Education, and English Language Education. “The academic training I received here at WVSU has been invaluable,” said Shazwina Syfia Aulia. “It has not only expanded my knowledge but also enhanced my skills to better serve students back home in Indonesia.”
Nada Auliya Rahmah echoed similar sentiments, adding, “The English language training was particularly helpful, as it has broadened my horizons and given me new tools to use in my teaching career.”
Beyond academics, the students expressed immense gratitude for the cultural experiences they had throughout their stay. They recalled participating in traditional Filipino dances, food tastings, and visiting cultural landmarks, all of which they found to be highlights of the program.
The SEA-Teacher Project continues to foster international collaboration, cultural exchange, and the professional development of future educators in Southeast Asia.
It is noted that this is the 10th batch that WVSU has participated in.
By Gladwyn B. Gustilo/ILLO
