Iloilo City, November 15, 2024 — The West Visayas State University (WVSU) International and Local Linkages Office, in partnership with Dagyoung Student Ambassadors and University Student Council, marked the annual International Students’ Day Celebration with a theme: “Celebrating the Power of Education in Spirit of Peace and Sense of Global Action for a Sustainable Community.”

The 2024 celebration emphasized the transformative role of education in fostering peace, promoting intercultural understanding, and encouraging global initiatives for sustainable development. The event attracted a diverse group of local and international students, faculty, and community members, highlighting WVSU’s commitment to global education and cooperation.

Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, Director of ILLO, highlighted the importance of such events in promoting a culture of peace and sustainability among the students. “Education is the cornerstone of a peaceful and prosperous society. It is through platforms like these that we can empower our students to become global citizens and leaders for positive change”, she said.

Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, WVSU president, welcomed the participants and guests, and stressed that this activity is WVSU’s commitment to internationalization and cultural exchange. He also affirmed that WVSU is maintaining holistic education, addressing most especially the GenZ because they are the “techy generation”. He encouraged everyone to “advocate in the prosperity of WVSU, the new QS -ranked university in Asia”.

Looking Ahead: Commitment to Global Education

Mr. Jerome L. Duque, member of the Secretariat of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), International Affairs National Review Committee (iNRC) and the lead of Tarlac Agricultural University’s rankings, delivered an important address on the IZN Mandates and Commitment, emphasizing the critical role of higher education in global cooperation and the ongoing efforts to empower students through international programs.

Following that, Ms. Junel Ann Divinagracia, City Tourism Officer, Iloilo City, discussed Tourism and the Global Mindset. Ms. Junel explored the vital connection between tourism and education, highlighting how fostering a global mindset can contribute to better cross-cultural understanding and global cooperation.

Impact of International Education on Global Changes

The program also featured an audio-visual presentation of exchange students’ experiences at WVSU, offering a glimpse into the diverse and enriching experiences of WVSU students participating in international exchange programs.

Dr. Jemuel Garcia Jr., Chairperson of Division of Culture and the Arts of WVSU, tackled the topic International Students: Challenges and Opportunities shed light on the obstacles faced by international students, as well as the opportunities they can seize through global education and engagement. Dr. Garcia was a Bayer Young Environmental Envoy who was sent to Germany; a Japan Youth Exchange Network scholar, and; a FulBright scholar.

Following this, Mr. Gilbert “Bombette” Marin, Iloilo Provincial Officer, delivered a talk on Positioning Local into Global. Mr. Marin’s presentation focused on how local communities can expand their horizons by integrating into the global network, emphasizing the importance of international engagement and collaboration.

Volunteerism in Focus: Making Difference Together

Marlon T. Jinon, Chief Economic Development Specialist, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) VI, shared his own journey into the world of volunteerism, detailing how his experiences in community projects and international service have shaped his perspectives on leadership, education, and global citizenship. He emphasized that volunteerism is not just an act of service but a powerful means of creating connections across cultures and building understanding between people of different backgrounds.

Education as Bridge for Peace and Sustainability

Executive Director Andres S. Aguinaldo, Jr., of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU), shared insights on Peace and the Role of Higher Education. He emphasized the importance of volunteerism in peace building and the role of higher education in nurturing leaders who can drive global change.

The celebration underscored WVSU’s role as a bridge between local and global communities, fostering an environment where education is a tool for peace and sustainability. WVSU continues to be at the forefront of creating opportunities for students to engage with the world, learn from diverse perspectives, and contribute meaningfully to a sustainable future.

Connecting Students to Global Opportunities

The presence of the American Language Village (ALV) team led by Director Leo Liu and Campus France represented by manager, Mr. Paulo Udani, at WVSU’s International Students’ Day reflects the university’s dedication to providing its students with access to global opportunities. The event was a testament to WVSU’s commitment to preparing students for a globalized world.

As the event concluded, the spirit of unity, learning, and global action resonated among participants, reinforcing the belief that education is a powerful force for good in a world striving for a more sustainable and peaceful tomorrow.