This month-long initiative established by the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO) as part of the SEA-Teacher Project Batch 11โmarks Universitas Terbuka’s first time participating in the program, cementing a new milestone in cross-border educational synergy.
Aligning with this vision of global academic cooperation, ๐จ๐ป๐ถ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ๐๐ถ๐๐ ๐ฃ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐๐ถ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ป๐ ๐๐ฟ. ๐๐น๐ฏ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ ๐ . ๐๐ฎ๐น๐ฎ๐ expressed his full support for the initiative. Dr. Galas underscored that hosting international delegates reflects PSUโs steadfast evolution into a premier ASEAN higher education institution. He noted that programs like the SEA-Teacher Project do not merely train future educators; they cultivate global citizens who will shape the future landscape of Southeast Asian education.
To immerse the delegates in local culture, the university hosted a scenic campus and town tour. The Indonesian student-teachers explored the historic town of Lingayen, visiting iconic landmarks such as the majestic Sison Auditorium and the provincial Capitol Grounds, offering them a warm introduction to Pangasinan’s rich heritage.
The immersion transitioned into a formal opening ceremony held at the Kalachuchi Hall of the Golden Lion Hotel.
Dr. Marie Claire Briones, Lingayen Campus Executive Director, welcomed the participants, emphasizing the shared commitment of both institutions to academic excellence.
โWe are equally excited to learn from you. Together, let us build bridges of understanding, strengthen regional cooperation, and promote educational excellence throughout Southeast Asia,โ Dr. Briones stated.
The program proper delved deep into the framework, objectives, and cultural expectations of the exchange program through a series of comprehensive orientations. Dr. Krigher Simbulan, Director for Continuing Professional Development, and current Head gor Faculty and Student Mobility, opened the discussion by outlining the core purpose of the activity. He proudly highlighted that PSUโs commitment to this SEAMEO initiative runs deep, with the university actively participating in the project since 2017 to foster long-term international linkages.
To bridge communication and cultural gaps, the delegates participated in a lively session on “Basic Filipino Language and Expressions.” This was spearheaded by Mr. Marck Esthevyn Cabiso, a PSU student from the Bayambang Campus who was part of the exchange student program in Indonesia, providing a unique and relatable peer-to-peer learning experience. This was followed by an insightful presentation from Dr. Cristeta Dulos, Director for Global Citizenship Education, who walked the delegates through the principles of GCED. Her session emphasized the vital role of modern educators in fostering inclusivity, sustainability, and interconnectedness in the 21st-century classroom.
Providing the practical foundation for their upcoming deployment, Mr. Mark Marlon P. De Vera, Coordinator of Practice Teaching for the Lingayen Campus, conducted a comprehensive classroom orientation. He shared strategic insights into handling Filipino learners. This thorough briefing ensured that the inbound student-teachers are well-equipped to manage their classes effectively.
Bringing the ceremony to a meaningful close, Dr. Renato E. Salcedo, Vice President for Local and International Affairs, delivered the closing remarks. He encapsulated the true spirit of internationalization and the deep-seated bond being forged between the two nations.
โTrue leadership in education knows no borders,” Dr. Salcedo remarked. “As we wrap this opening ceremony, we open a chapter of shared knowledge and mutual growth. Your presence here today is proof that while oceans may divide our nations, our shared vision for quality education unites us as one Southeast Asia. Welcome to your home away from home.โ
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