By Mikee Natinga Norico

CPU and Aichi International Education Center representatives pose for a group photo during their meeting at the CPU Admin Conference Room on December 16, 2024.

Central Philippine University (CPU) and the Aichi International Education Center (AIEC) have strengthened their ongoing partnership to foster educational exchange opportunities between Japan and the Philippines. This collaboration, focused on promoting internationalization and cultural exchange, was formally discussed during a meeting held at the CPU Administration Conference Room on December 16, 2024. The meeting welcomed representatives from AIEC, including its president, Mr. Masataka Ota, his wife, Mrs. Lee, and Ms. Irish Detablan, Translator and Program Coordinator.

The event commenced with a prayer led by Prof. Ismael Almajar Jr., CHM Faculty and Travel and SIAP Coordinator, setting the tone for an engaging and fruitful discussion. Acting Director of the Local and International Linkages and Affiliations Center (LILAC), Prof. Lesley Joy L. Dignadice, expressed her gratitude to the attendees for their time amidst the busy December schedule. She emphasized the importance of international collaborations and highlighted CPU’s recent achievements, including an International Ranking Award, which solidifies its standing as a premier educational institution in region 6.

In her opening remarks, Dr. Lorna T. Grande, Dean of the College of Business and Accountancy, welcomed the AIEC representatives on behalf of CPU President, Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, who was in Manila for the award ceremony. Dr. Grande underscored CPU’s ongoing partnerships with universities across Asia, including Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Myanmar, and expressed optimism about future collaborations with AICHI.

During the meeting, Mr. Masataka Ota, President of Aichi International Education Center, provided updates on the ongoing partnership. He shared that three CPU students are currently completing internships in Japan in the hospitality and cultural sectors, supported by Aichi International Education Center, guidance and resources. He also mentioned Aichi International Education Center, role in assisting CPU exchange students studying at Nagoya Gakuin University and Japanese students studying at CPU. The programs aim to provide cultural immersion, professional growth, and career preparation for participants.

Ms. Irish Detablan presented an overview of AIEC’s initiatives, including its language training programs and the Nagoya International School of Japanese Language, which support foreign students in adapting to Japanese society. She highlighted the Philippine International Study Program, set to launch in 2025, which will bring Japanese students to CPU for English language and cultural immersion, preparing them for global career opportunities.

Engr. Dany C. Molina, Vice President for Administration, reaffirmed CPU’s commitment to internationalization. He lauded CPU’s global initiatives, such as student exchanges and the Sakura Science Program, which align with the university’s motto of providing Exemplary Christian Education for Life (EXCEL). Engr. Molina expressed excitement about expanding collaborations to include faculty and research exchanges, emphasizing CPU’s dedication to preparing students for a globally competitive future.

The program concluded with an open forum where attendees exchanged ideas on enhancing existing programs and creating more impactful initiatives in the future.

This continuous partnership between CPU and AIEC represents a significant step in the university’s mission to provide students with global learning experiences and promote cross-cultural understanding between Japan and the Philippines. As the collaboration deepens, the two institutions are set to explore further opportunities for enriching student experiences and enhancing their academic and professional prospects.

Central Philippine University remains committed to building and sustaining international relationships that prepare students for global careers and contribute to the global community.

The event was attended by key CPU officials, including Engr. Dany C. Molina, Vice President for Administration; Lesley Joy L. Dignadice, Acting Director of the Local and International Linkages and Affiliations Center (LILAC); Mary Earl Daryl A. Grio, Dean of the College of Engineering; Prof. Christina A. Quijano, Dean of the College of Computer Studies; Rose Leah Joy A. Ojacastro, Acting Chairperson of Information Technology and Systems; Prof. Marjee Rose B. Parreño, Chairperson of BSCS and BSDMIA; Prof. Ismael Almajar Jr., MBM, CHM Faculty and Travel and SIAP Coordinator; and Carmen N. Hernandez, Chairperson of the Department of Business Administration.