Internationalization alliances in education catalyze a more promising and interconnected future. These tools facilitate the transcendence of boundaries, the embracement of diversity, and the empowerment of our learners by equipping them with the necessary global perspectives and abilities to flourish in a world that is becoming more interconnected. With this, the Assumption College of Davao launched its first-ever international partnership with the Atma Jaya Catholic University to address the CHED Memorandum Order No. 55 Series of 2016 on October 11, 2023.
The launch started with an opening prayer, followed by the national anthems of Indonesia and the Philippines. Dr. Elsa D. Villanueva, the Vice President for Formation and Student Services of the Assumption College of Davao, formally opened the online partnership launch. Hence, brief videos were played for both Assumption College of Davao and Atma Jaya Catholic University to get a glimpse of each school’s background.
Furthermore, Dr. Agustinus Prasetyantoko, the Atma Jaya Catholic University Rector, and Dr. Giovanni A. Montejo, the Vice President for Academic Affairs, Research, and Community Engagement of the Assumption College of Davao, delivered their message of support. In their messages, the following were emphasized: sustainability talks, faculty mobility, joint seminars and workshops, and joint research. Sustainability talks catalyze fostering environmental awareness among individuals, while faculty mobility programs facilitate broadening intellectual perspectives. Joint seminars and workshops are crucial in nurturing joint knowledge, and joint research endeavors drive innovation toward a more promising future.
In addition, Hon. Achmad Djatmiko, the Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia in Davao City, also shared his message of support through a video presentation. Indeed, international partnerships play a key role in equipping organizations with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in a globalized environment where interconnectedness and appreciation for diverse viewpoints are paramount for personal and professional achievements.
Finally, the international partnership program was ended by Dr. Judith N. Ambalong, the College Dean of the Assumption College of Davao, through her closing remarks. Thus, the program for developing international partnerships in education serves as a symbol of global learning, demonstrating the limitless possibilities that arise from collaboration across national boundaries. Moreover, it is a driving force for a more interconnected and promising future in education.
