In a significant step towards global educational collaboration, the American Language Village (ALV) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with West Visayas State University (WVSU) on November 15, 2024. This agreement sets the stage for a series of academic and cultural exchanges, beginning with an Immersion Camp to be held in Taiwan next year.
The partnership was formalized in a ceremony at WVSU’s main campus, attended by faculty, students, and representatives from both institutions. The Taiwan-based camp, which will be the first major project under the MOU, is designed to offer WVSU students an immersive experience. These students will act as teacher assistants, supervising students facilitating group activities, and supporting both the language instruction and the cultural activities integral to the camp’s curriculum.
American Language Village representatives led by Director Leo Liu, expressed their enthusiasm about the project, noting that Taiwan’s vibrant culture and international setting make it an ideal location for such an educational initiative. “We are excited to welcome the students as chaperones for our immersion camp. Their involvement will bring a fresh perspective to our program and help create a vibrant and inclusive learning atmosphere.”, he said.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for our students to enhance their skills and develop a deeper understanding of global cultures,” said Dr. Peter Ernie D. Paris, Vice President for Administration and Finance (VPAF) of WVSU. The initiative aligns with the university’s goal of equipping students with skills that are essential for a competitive international landscape.
The camp will feature a comprehensive curriculum, including cultural excursions, and interactive workshops led by educators from the American Language Village. Organizers are also planning activities that will encourage collaboration between participants from the Philippines, Taiwan, and potentially other countries.
As preparations for the Taiwan camp progress, both institutions are optimistic that this partnership will open doors for more collaborative projects, enhancing learning opportunities for students and faculty alike. WVSU International and Local Linkages Office is actively seeking to establish more partnerships that offer global opportunities to WVSU students.
