By Janela A. Ponce
| SEA-Teacher exchange students pose with Dr. Salvacion J. Legaspi, VP for External Affairs and Linkages; and external affairs and linkages coordinators.
|
Capiz State University formally welcomed the 21 SEA-Teacher Project participants from various universities in Indonesia in a ceremony held at CAPSU Roxas City (Main) Campus, January 30.
Derly Syahputra from Universitas Ahmad Dahlan and Mr. Dennis Asral from Universitas who are hosted by CAPSU Mambusao were among the exchange students honored in this welcome ceremony.
University key officials led by CAPSU President Dr. Efren L. Linan graced the occasion which was organized by Dr. Salvacion J. Legaspi, Vice President for External Affairs and Linkages.
In her welcome remarks, Dr. Legaspi underscored how partnership and dedication have contributed to the success of the SEA-Teacher.
“This program stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, cultural exchange, and enduring commitment of institutions like ours to nurture globally competent educators,” Dr. Legaspi said.
Dr. Legaspi also told the exchange students that they would be learning not only teaching strategies but also the rich Filipino traditions and values.
“As you immerse yourselves in the experience, you would come to know the Filipino people celebrated for their hospitality, resilience, and deep sense of community,” she added.
To end her remarks, Dr. Legaspi expressed her anticipation for the positive impact that the program would bring into the lives of the participants.
“We’re excited to see how your experiences will shape you into educators who inspire change, promote inclusivity, and uphold excellence. May this program ignite your passion for teaching and open your hearts to the beauty of diversity. Let us learn from one another, grow together, and create memories that will last a lifetime,” she concluded.
Meanwhile, the head of the university, Dr. Linan imparted an inspirational message for the exchange students.
He started his message by giving a brief backgrounder on the SEA-Teacher Project like improving the pre-service student teacher’s language proficiency, 21st Century skills, and global competitiveness.
Dr. Linan also shared his observation how the SEA-Teacher Project has evolved through the years in developing future educators.
“We have seen the significant improvement and significance of the SEA-Teacher Project in nurturing and enhancing pre-service student teachers with multi-cultural understanding, by providing them ample learning experiences and various opportunities in different counties,” Dr. Linan said.
Dr. Linan stirred their interest to learning the culture of the province that they may share back home.
“I encourage you to immerse in the rich cultural underpinning of the province of Capiz that you can share with your families, classmates, and friends, and mentors in your country,” he added.
The university president also assured the Indonesian pre-service teachers that the university will give them the assistance they need.
“We look forward to supporting you in every step of the way. Just tell us how we can help along the way,” Dr. Linan reassured the exchange students to assist them while they are under the care of CAPSU.
The affair was attended by personalities from partner university, the local government, and the academe.
Dr. Agustinus Hary Setyawan from Universitas Mercu Buana Yogyakarta in Indonesia graced the occasion with his presence. He went to CAPSU to share the best research practices and teaching pedagogies in his university.
Vice Governor James Magbanua was also present representing Capiz Governor Fredenil H. Castro.
Representatives from the Roxas City government, Capiz and Roxas City Schools Divisions were sent by their respective heads to express their support to this endeavor and to welcome the exchange students.
Principals, school heads, and cooperating teachers of the schools where the SEA pre-service teachers would be deployed also attended the welcome ceremony.
To add colors to the occasion, the Indonesian students presented a series of performances showcasing their own culture through songs and dances. The CAPSU Main Chorale and Dance Troupe also performed a Philippine folk song and dance.
To formally end the program, Dr. Annalie G. Campos, Vice President for Academic Affairs, delivered her closing remarks, where she noted the significance of the SEA-Teacher Project.
“This program is more than just an academic exchange, it is an opportunity to foster cross-cultural understanding, enhance different practices, and build lasting connections. Through collaborations, shared experiences, and spirit of learning. We hope that this journey will be both enriching and inspiring to everyone involved,” Dr. Campos said.
“To our student teachers, may this experience empower you to become globally competitive educators,” she added.
The vice president also expressed her gratitude to the schools where the exchange students will render their internship.
“To our partner schools and mentors, thank you for your unwavering support in shaping the future of these young educators,” Dr. Campos said.