Seven pre-service teachers and three campus officials from Pangasinan State University landed in Malaysia on June 7 to participate in a two-week Academic Exchange Program in Teacher Education hosted by UNITAR International University, Malaysia.
University President Dr. Elbert M. Galas led this initiative, emphasizing that such programs reflect PSU’s vision to become an industry-driven state university and its mission to equip future educators with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in today’s interconnected society.
“This academic exchange is part of PSU’s ongoing efforts to expand its international partnerships and provide students with opportunities to experience education beyond national borders,” President Galas said.
The program, which runs from June 7 to 20, aims to broaden the participants’ teaching experience by exposing them to innovative teaching methods and diverse educational settings. UNITAR, a well-regarded institution known for its progressive academic programs and emphasis on international collaboration, serves as an ideal partner.
Immediately upon arrival, the PSU delegation conducted courtesy calls and toured various UNITAR facilities. Over the coming days, they are scheduled to take part in classroom observations, teaching simulations, workshops, and group activities with UNITAR students and faculty. These experiences are designed to sharpen the interns’ pedagogical skills while promoting intercultural understanding.
“This exchange is part of our commitment to provide our students with real-world experiences beyond the classroom. It offers an opportunity to build professional connections, learn from different cultures, and explore innovative approaches to teaching.,” said Dr. Ian D. Evangelista, PSU’s Vice President for Local and International Affairs,
The seven teaching interns, all enrolled in the Bachelor of Secondary Education program of Bayambang Campus, include: James Aldrin P. Bacani, Bryan S. Biao, Carlos Miguel R. Caerlang, Wrensly M. Calimlim, John Glenn B. Ermino, Joward P. Medina, and Justine Mark F. Rosal.
Accompanying the students are two campus officials from PSU-BC: Dr. Gudelia M. Samson, Campus Executive Director, and Dr. Mitzy M. Macaraeg, Dean of the College of Teacher Education. Both faculty members will serve as visiting lecturers and participate in benchmarking meetings with UNITAR administrators and faculty from June 7 to 14. They were also joined by Dr. Renato E. Salcedo, Campus Executive Director of Lingayen Campus, to further strengthen inter-campus collaboration and representation during the visit.
The student participants were carefully selected through a rigorous screening process. They also secured parental consent and comprehensive travel and health insurance to ensure their safety and preparedness for the overseas program.
As the program progresses, the PSU participants are expected to act as ambassadors of Filipino education and culture while gaining fresh perspectives that will better prepare them for teaching in a globalized world.
The exchange program was made possible through the collaborative efforts of PSU’s local and international affairs leadership, headed by Dr. Ian D. Evangelista, along with the International Relations Office officials composed of Dir. Leizel M. Del Castillo, Dr. Krigher C. Simbulan, and Dr. Jesusa B. Sanchez.
Story and Photos: OVPLIA
