In today’s interconnected world, international events play a crucial role in fostering global exposure for educational institutions. This is particularly true for Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) which has been actively sending participants to various international events. These events provide a platform for the University to showcase excellence in instruction, share research contributions, and show appreciation for cultural diversity to a global audience. and at the same time learn from the best practices of world-renowned universities abroad.

Participating in international events offers numerous benefits for ISAT U. Firstly, it allows the university to establish collaborations and partnerships with other renowned institutions worldwide. These collaborations can lead to joint research projects, faculty exchanges, and student mobility programs, enhancing the overall academic experience for ISAT U students.

Secondly, international events provide an opportunity for ISAT U to showcase its research and innovation capabilities. By presenting research papers, projects, and inventions, ISAT U can gain recognition on a global scale and attract potential collaborators and investors. This exposure can also increase funding opportunities for the university’s research initiatives.

Furthermore, participating in international events helps ISAT U appreciate cultural diversity and heritage. This not only fosters a sense of pride among the ISAT U community but also promotes cultural exchange and understanding among participants from different countries.

ISAT U has been actively participating in various international events including the following:

The Belt and Road International Conference on Reform and Development of Vocational Education was held in Shenyang, China from September 22 to October 1, 2023. It was attended by Dr. Nemia H. Mabaquiao – Vice President for External Affairs and Ms. Jieza J. Napone – External Affairs Marketing and Communications Officer who delivered a keynote speech about the System of Education in the Philippines and how China and ISAT U may be able to foster its partnership through collaborative programs on instruction, research, and faculty development among others. From this activity, ISAT U has formalized its partnership with Liaoning Jianzhu Vocational College and is currently working out the possibility of the Mozi Workshop on ISAT U.

Global Education Summit 2023 with the theme “Creating Professional Leaders for ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future” hosted by Chandigarh University, India on October 9-11, 2023. This summit was organized to bring together the prominent Chancellors, Presidents, and Vice Chancellors of International and National universities to jointly deliberate upon drawing out a roadmap for sensitization about human values and ways to create inclusiveness through the internationalization of education for universal well-being. This was attended by Dr. Carmelo V. Ambut – Vice President for Research and Extension. Dr. Ambut was given the opportunity to talk on “Global Collaborations in Higher Education for Achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals”. 

            Korea Research Institute for Vocational Education & Training (KRIVET) held in Seoul, South Korea on October 17-19, 2023 attended by Ms. Lyza Belle A. Lagura – UNEVOC Coordinator. The KRIVET event served as a catalyst for future advancements in vocational education and training. The knowledge shared and collaborations formed during the event are expected to contribute to the development of innovative practices, policies, and research in the field. It is likewise expected that the event’s outcomes will have a positive impact on vocational education systems globally, leading to enhanced skills development and improved career opportunities for individuals.

ISAT U also hosts inbound students from its partner schools in ASIA for its International Credit Transfer program for one semester; students from Universitas PGRI Madiun (UNIPMA) arrived on August 6, 2023. The SEA Teacher participants from Chiang Rai Rajabhat University (CRRU) arrived on August 16 for their student exchange program and the JASSO Scholarship participants from the National Institute of Technology Sasebo (NITS) College, Japan arrived on August 21 of the same year for their Language and Cultural Immersion in the university. Most of these students stay in the university for a month to learn and immerse in Filipino culture.

Students from the ISAT U are also sent abroad for their academic and cultural exposure. John Joseph Tabladillo, Hannah Grace Ortegula, Geia Nicolle Espina, and Kristine Joy Cenit were sent to attend the Universitas Pendidikan Ganesha (UNDIKSHA) in Indonesia on July 22-31, 2023 – the third quarter of the year.

Participating in international events, outside the country and those being hosted in the Philippines, has proven to be instrumental in fostering global exposure for ISAT U which is anchored in the 10-point agenda of the second university president – Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre, Jr. Through these events, the university has been able to establish collaborations, showcase its research capabilities, and promote cultural diversity. As ISAT U continues to actively engage in international events, it is poised to further enhance its global reputation and contribute to the advancement of education and research on a global scale.

Article by: Jieza J. Napone, LPT