Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which advocates for quality education and lifelong learning opportunities, Guimaras State University (GSU) marked significant milestones in international collaboration and knowledge exchange. Through partnerships that emphasize cross-cultural learning and skills development, GSU’s College of Teacher Education (CTE) exchange students recently began their practice teaching program in Indonesia, while faculty and students from the College of Agricultural Sciences showcased their expertise at an esteemed international conference.
On August 31, 2023, CTE exchange students Ms. Jirah Faith Asistido, Ms. Mary Be Gadot, and Ms. Leishan Piamonte, accompanied by Dr. Joel V. Japitana, Director of International Linkages and External Affairs, traveled to Jakarta, Indonesia. There, they embarked on a one-month teaching practicum at Sekolah Quantum, where they engaged in innovative classroom techniques and pedagogies. This opportunity not only allowed these aspiring educators to apply their teaching skills but also fostered global perspectives crucial in delivering inclusive and equitable education, a core objective of SDG 4.
In parallel with these efforts, Prof. Rhea Joy Flora and Joebel Talaban, a student from the College of Agricultural Sciences, represented GSU at the 3rd International Conference on Applied Science (ICAS) 2023 on September 2-3, held in Bogor, Indonesia. The conference, hosted by Institut Pertanian Bogor (IPB), focused on agro-maritime collaboration—a field of growing importance in sustainable agriculture. Their participation underscored GSU’s commitment to engaging in international dialogues on scientific advancements and sustainable practices that contribute to global development.
Through these initiatives, Guimaras State University continues to fulfill its commitment to SDG 4 by advancing high-quality educational experiences that transcend borders. These exchanges not only enrich GSU’s academic community but also foster a more connected, globally-minded generation equipped to address the educational and environmental challenges of tomorrow.