Saint Louis University-School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts (SLU-STELA) hosted a send-off program for the inaugural group of International Exchange Students participating in the 10th batch of the SEA-Teacher Project, organized by the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO). This event occurred on October 18, 2024, at the P700 Perfecto Building in SLU’s Main Campus.
The exchange students, along with SLU’s professional education students, were warmly welcomed by SLU-STELA Associate Dean Teresita D. Ignacio, PhD; Department of Professional Education Head Sheila M. Magat, PhD; Department of Professional Education College Supervisor Bryan Catama, DevEd; SLU-Basic Education School (SLU-BEdS) Assistant Principal Ms. Lorna E. Lucas; and SLU-Office of Global Relations and Alumni Affairs (SLU-OGRAA) Internationalization and Alumni Affairs Coordinator Mr. Joshua Madongit. “We are here to celebrate the beginning of lasting friendships and the promise of future reunions,” said Dr. Ignacio.
The program highlighted the academic and cultural experiences of the students from Indonesia and Vietnam, alongside their Louisian buddies who provided support and guidance throughout their stay at the university.
Tokens of appreciation were presented to the international exchange students as a gesture of goodwill. In response, La Ode Muhamad Alwan, Maemuna, and Rian Mutiara from Halu-Oleo University in Indonesia performed a traditional dance, offering a glimpse into their cultural heritage. Additionally, Tran Thuy Tien, Vo Thi Quyni Nhu, and Nguyen Huu Thinh from Dong Thap University in Vietnam rendered a musical performance.
To further foster cultural exchange, Louisian buddies—Nicole Rose Bomogao, Ryan Francis Dangiw, Faith Elein Jornadal, Jocelle Frances Viloria, Ryan Angelo Gequinto, and Rance Remon De Guia—performed a local song, highlighting the Cordilleran culture. The program concluded with a community dance, uniting students and faculty in a shared moment of cultural exchange and celebration.
The event exemplifies Saint Louis University’s dedication to fostering internationalization, collaboration, and dynamic education. Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), this gathering underscores the university’s ongoing commitment to advancing global partnerships and enriching educational experiences. (Article by Shane Gamboa, OGRAA Intern | Photos by Meann Henderson, OGRAA Intern)
