TIMES AUSTRALIA, JAKARTA – The Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP) at Universitas Mercu Buana Yogyakarta (UMBY) recently welcomed a delegation of students from Capiz State University (CAPSU), Philippines. This event is part of the SEA TEACHER (South-East Asian Teacher Project) batch 10.

The welcoming party took place at the Seminar Room, Campus 1 UMBY, on Sunday (26/1/2025). This occasion bring the two international level universities students getting closer.

Strengthening International Collaboration in Education

The Vice Dean of FKIP, Agustinus Hary Setyawan, SPd MA, explained that the SEA TEACHER program provides opportunities for aspiring teachers from universities across Southeast Asia to gain hands-on teaching experience in schools within the region.

"Currently, we are collaborating with Capiz State University (CAPSU) from the Philippines. Four students from FKIP are participating in the exchange at CAPSU, while four students from CAPSU are learning at FKIP UMBY," stated Hary on Friday (31/1/2025).

The exchange program is scheduled to take place from January 31 to February 25, 2025. There are 4 FKIP students selected for the program at CAPSU.

They are I Putu Bagus Wira Sukmana and Muntaha Sururi from the Sports Science program. Farihah Salma from the Mathematics Education program, and Yustiniani Lusia Pandango from the English Education program ae also appointed for this program.

Meanwhile, the CAPSU students participating in the exchange at FKIP UMBY are Keneth B. Rone (Science Education), John Patrick S. Ledesma (English Education), Sharmain P. Genova (English Education), and Joane Miles A. Veedor (Physical Education).

Enhancing Academic and Cultural Exchange

Daniel Ari Widhiatama, SPd MHum, Head of the International Cooperation Division at UMBY appreciate the program. He emphasized that the SEA TEACHER program aims not only to strengthen collaboration between UMBY and CAPSU but also to provide students with opportunities to immerse themselves in local culture.

"It was also intended to enhance their teaching skills, including lesson planning and assessment methods," he said.

Dr. Efren L. Linan, SUC President III of CAPSU, also expressed his enthusiasm for the program, highlighting the positive impact on students' academic and cultural perspectives.

"This exchange program will broaden students' academic and cultural knowledge, making them more qualified and well-prepared for their future careers," stated Dr. Efren.

CAPSU student delegation coordinator, Joane Miles A. Veedor, shared her excitement about the experience, emphasizing that the program offers valuable opportunities for learning and personal growth.

A Commitment to Global Learning Opportunities

The international collaboration between UMBY and Capiz State University is expected to open more doors for academic and cultural exchange initiatives. This partnership reflects UMBY's commitment to expanding its global network and providing international exposure for its students.

By participating in the SEA TEACHER program, UMBY continues to uphold its dedication to producing globally competent educators while fostering cross-cultural understanding among future teachers in Southeast Asia.