CNU participates in the 36th AUAP Annual Conference

Cebu Normal University (CNU), represented by Dr. Rufina Rosaroso — Vice President for Academic Affairs and Internationalization — and Dr. Genara B. Pacaña — Director of the Center for Internationalization, ODL, and CELL, joined the 36th AUAP Annual Conference in Siam University, Bangkok, Thailand, last 17-18 November 2023.

The primary purpose of the Association of Universities of Asia and the Pacific (AUAP) is to be the main platform for interaction and collaboration among members and the voice of universities and colleges in Asia and the Pacific. The AUAP promotes a culture of quality and innovation in higher education, research and services to the community, and to protect and strengthen the cultural variety and values of Asia and the Pacific in order to foster greater communication and collaboration for the advancement of socioeconomic growth and world peace.

AUAP organizes regular conferences and workshops for higher education leaders and institutions, and this year the annual conference held the theme, “Utilizing Institutional Assets to Enhance Global Outreach,” and focused on unique university programs or projects that exemplify how universities address the emerging needs of the various publics they serve.

The opening ceremony was led with the welcome remarks by Prof. Dr. Annop Swarup, Secretary General of the AUAP, Dr. Pornchai Mongkhonvanit, President of the Siam University, as well as Dr. Md. Sabur Khan, the President of the AUAP. This was followed by a series of sessions by an incredible lineup of keynote speakers. Each of these sessions delved into unique subject matters, which includes on entrepreneurship, digitization, 21st century mindset, SDGs and sustainable society, community outreach, self-exploration, distance education, as well as internationalization. The conference also featured paper presentations on health care, nutrition, environment, and software solutions.

This was a unique platform for interaction and collaboration between members which is in line with CNU’s commitment as a member institution of the AUAP.

CNU students immerse in Indonesian art & culture through the Virtual CommTECH
Nusantara 2023

Cebu Normal University participated in the Virtual Community and Technological (CommTECH) Nusantara 2023: Let’s Dance Together which was held virtually last 16-27 October 2023. Let’s Dance Together was the latest edition of the CommTECH, hosted by CNU’s Indonesian partner, the Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS). This edition focuses more on Indonesian art and culture related activities such as traditional music and dance.

The short program was participated by different universities from Indonesia, China, Colombia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Cebu Normal University was represented by the following students: Krestine Velos from the College of Teacher Education; Geraldine Caangay from the College of Law, Public Governance and Safety; Jeriah Cantalejo from College of Nursing; Sheena Montero from Balamban Campus; and Norlyn Dela Cruz from Medellin Campus. These students were endorsed by the College IZN Focal Persons.

The participants had a celebratory opening ceremony and were also taken on a virtual campus tour. Dr. Maria Anityasari, Director of ITS Global Engagement, thanked the participating universities in her speech on behalf of ITS.

Over the next ten sessions, the participants immersed in different Indonesian editions of art and culture: Bali Edition, Sumatra Edition, Batik Class, Indonesia Aerobic, Kalimantan Edition, Sulawesi Edition, Maluku & Papua Edition, and Maumere Dance.

The project announcement was made on the ninth day in which the participants were challenged to design a poster for a traditional Indonesian dance. In addition, they were given a choice to also submit a dance video presentation.

Let’s Dance Together had a colorful and festive closing ceremony with the virtual exhibition of posters and dance videos. The College of Nursing’s Jeriah Cantalejo was awarded among the best with her Legong Dance poster. She also placed 7th in the leaderboards in the final quiz. CNU upholds its commitment to internationalization by empowering students to participate in international events such as this, which likewise help develop their intercultural competencies.

CNU welcomes distinguished professor from Indonesia

Professor Achmad Arifin, affiliated with the Biomedical Engineering Department at the Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) of Indonesia, visited Cebu Normal University (CNU) last 06-07 November 2023 to meet with various offices to create a meaningful working partnership.

The collaboration between CNU and ITS began through the University Mobility in Asia and the Pacific (UMAP) Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) Course Development Program where Prof. Arifin partnered with Dr. Janet Mananay, the CTE IZN Focal Person. This launched the “Assistive Technology to Improve Learning Performance of Students with Language and Communication Disabilities,” which will also be led by Dr. Venus Cortes, Program Chair for BSNEd.

Prof. Arifin’s visit was an auspicious occasion to discuss and explore ways forward with our academic cooperation with ITS. He was received by Dr. Mananay and Dr. Cortes and was introduced to Dr. Genara Pacaña, the Director of the Center for Internationalization, ODL, and CELL. The professor also sat down with the University President and the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Internationalization for a series of exploratory meetings and partnership deliberations.

During his visit, Prof. Arifin was toured in the SPED Center, which will play a significant role in this partnership. The COIL Project with ITS is focused in the understanding and assessment of assistive technology to help the learning process of students with language and communication disabilities. The BSNEd students in CNU will be learning together with the Biomedical Engineering students in ITS. A coordination meeting together with Prof. Arifin, Dr. Cortes, Ms. Marites Serenado and Ms. Fanny Mae Mobida was conducted at the CTE Dean’s Office.

Prof. Arifin’s second day in CNU started with a lecture session at the ACAS Building with Mr. Rhoniel Ryan Ymbong’s Biotechnology class. During this interaction, he gave a discussion on biomedical engineering and assistive technology with Third Year BS Biology students. In here, there was an exchange of ideas regarding science, technology, and engineering. The professor also showed video clips of the innovative projects done in ITS. He remarked about the enthusiasm and curiosity of the students after the class.

The professor also stood as a special guest during the “Training Workshop on the Development and Validation of Needs Assessment Instrument for Community Extension Projects” hosted by the Extension Services Office at the Summit Galleria Cebu, where he met the Vice President for Research, Publication, Innovation, Commercialization, and Extension and the Dean of the College of Teacher Education. Prof. Arifin also sat down with other faculty members from different colleges who were keen for exploratory discussions for ITS collaborations.

Finally, in the spirit of Filipino hospitality, Prof. Arifin was taken on a tour around the historical landmarks in Cebu City.

A strong dedication to strategic internationalization is demonstrated by the recent cooperative efforts between the Center for Internationalization, ODL, and CELL and our international partners. The openness of the academic units, which allows the University to forge meaningful links across international borders, further supports this commitment.

CNU signs partnership with Bow Valley College

Cebu Normal University (CNU) expanded its partnership internationally with Canada-based Bow Valley College through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing at the Administration Building 101 today, September 28, 2023.
 
Bow Valley College President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Misheck Mwaba, Associate Director of Communication and Chief of Staff Ms. Vicky Chio, and Manager of Global Engagement Ms. Claudia Bognar attended the MOU signing.
 
CNU’s faculty staff and administrators also took part in discussing the primary intent of collaboration led by 6th University President Dr. Daniel A. Ariaso Sr.
 
Additionally, College of Nursing (CN) faculty Mr. Esperidion Corvera Jr. motioned for clarification of the two-year concept: two years studying in the Philippines and two years in Canada, given that both colleges have different curricula.
 
He asked if it was possible to “have the kind of curriculum from your university [Bow Valley College]” and include them in CNU; Bognar immediately responded that it was possible.
 
Moreover, Ariaso conveyed that there is a governing regulation by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) where credit transfer and recognition exist.
 
“We want to make sure that whatever the subject, it must have a corresponding credit recognition and transcript. In the same manner, we will also have the transfer of credits,” he said.
 
Bow Valley College invests in three applied research pillars including educational technology, social innovation, and health, and it offers academic programs which also cover university transfer courses.
 
The meeting concluded with the signing of the MOU and a photo session. §
Words by Donna Rose Egos
Photos from CNU – Public Information Office (PIO)

ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEACHING ASSISTANT IN SPAIN

We’re Hiring!
 
ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEACHING ASSISTANT IN SPAIN
 
Are you passionate about teaching English and eager to make a positive impact on students’ language skills?
 
In partnership with Cebu Normal University, the Spanish Ministry of Education is looking for qualified applicants who will get to teach in Spain and obtain professional development experience as an international teacher while immersing themselves in the Spanish culture.
 
If you have a love for language, a desire to inspire, and a commitment to fostering a vibrant learning environment, we encourage you to apply!
 
Education:
 
  • Must be a graduate of Cebu Normal University with a degree in BA English Language or Literature, BSED English, or BA Communication, and graduates of other courses equipped with proficiencies in English and Spanish language
  • With a General Weighted Average (GWA) of at least 1.70
  • Additional certifications in DELE/SIELE, IELTS, TESOL, TEFL, CELTA, or similar qualifications will be advantageous.
  • A PRC license or Diploma of Professional Education is an advantage.
Language proficiency:
 
  • Proficient in English with excellent written and spoken communication skills
  • Spanish fluency with at least an A1 level 108-hour Spanish language course, two-semester Spanish classes, or 126-hour Spanish language training from Instituto Cervantes * Graduates from CNU with no Spanish should join the Instituto Cervantes as students of A1.
Teaching Experience:
 
  • Teaching experience is a must
  • Teaching experience with international students is a plus.
Requirements:
 
To apply for the position of English Language Teaching Assistant, please provide details and submit the following documents (all in one PDF
1. Latest Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2. Reference Letters (two reference letters from CNU faculty members that can attest to your abilities and character)
3. Copy of the Transcript of Records
4. Copy of relevant trainings
Orientation Schedule: 1st week of October
(meeting details to be announced)
 
Application Deadline: September 30, 2023
 
Be empowered and explore new horizons!
 
The orientation for the English Language Teaching Assistant Program in Spain will take place on October 3, 2023, at 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM. This event is open to all CNU Graduates.
 
This orientation is the next step to the selection process. Learn about the essentials of the program for your journey to obtain professional development experiences as an international teacher.
 
Join us via Zoom!
 
To register, please complete our form here:
 
For inquiries about the program, please email:
Dr. Jollibee A. Aharul
Chair, TWG for LAP in Spain
aharulj@cnu.edu.ph
Please use your personal email for any inquiries.

CNU students immerse in Indonesian language and culture through CULTURA 2023

Cebu Normal University participated in The 2nd Course of Language and Culture of Indonesia (CULTURA) 2023 which was held from July 3rd to August 16th via Zoom. CULTURA 2023 was a six-week virtual summer course program hosted by the Sultan Agung Islamic University (UNISSULA).

Students from different universities from different countries such as the Philippines, Vietnam, China, Chile, India, Pakistan, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and the U.S.A. huddled virtually to learn about the Indonesian language and culture.

Cebu Normal University was represented by the following students: Noel Junior Quijano and Krestine Velos from the College of Teacher Education; Lendejhar Pescador and Lera Jane Camangyan from the College of Arts and Sciences; Shenna Montero from the Balamban Campus; and Delight Rosales from the Medellin Campus. These students were endorsed by the College IZN Focal Persons.

The opening ceremony and first session had the students introduced themselves coinciding the first lesson about “Salam” or the basic Indonesian courtesy. Hon. Rio Pribadi, Head of the Office of International Affairs (UNISSULA), briefed the students everything about the program.

Over the next sixteen meetings, the students engaged in different learning activities and cultural exchanges, on the “Alfabet”, on the “nama-nama hari” which translates to “names of the days” and “nama-nama bulan” or “names of the months”, on “angka dalam Bahasa Indonesia” or “the numbers in Indonesian”, on “Perkenalan” or “Introducing Oneself”, and even the “kata ganti orang” or “pronouns”. The students also carried out homework and tests, as well as presentations of their “keluarga” or “family”.

As the final assignment, the students were tasked to either cover a traditional Indonesian song or recite an Indonesian poem with corresponding awards up for grabs. For a remarkable triumph, all winners from the final assignment were from the Philippines and were recognized during the CULTURA 2023 closing ceremony. Our own Krestine M. Velos won the “Most Liked Performance” award. The winning students’ performance videos were presented as well. All students who completed the virtual summer course program were given a certificate as well as a letter of credit.

Taiwanese GS students visit CNU

Master of Education in School Administration Program students of National ChengChi University (NCU), Taipei, Taiwan visited Cebu Normal University (CNU) last July 20, 2023. Led by graduate school professor, Dr. Joseph (Meng-Chun) Chin of NCU, the visit aimed to learn from and foster possible collaborations with various universities and schools in neighboring countries.

NCU, being Taiwan’s leading in-service graduate program for teachers and school administrators, expressed interest in CNU’s education and internship practices. Dr. Chin together with the 23 graduate school students who are also teachers, supervisors, headmasters, and school principals of different kindergarten, elementary, and high schools in Taiwan, asked about special education offerings, Diploma in Professional Education, summer courses, and best pedagogical practices of the university. Dr. Helen B. Boholano, dean of the College of Teacher Education, Dr. Gwendelina A. Villarante, Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA), and Dr. Daisy R. Palompon, Director for Research and Development and former VPAA catered to the queries of the guests.

One of the students raised a question about CNU’s future plans for internationalization. Dr. Daisy R. Palompon and Ms. Naila Y. Beltran, Director for External Affairs and International Linkages, presented the university’s initiatives and current international partnerships with academic institutions abroad. Director Beltran also added that partnerships put a premium as well on research as CNU is a research university of education. Dr. Boholano invited NCU students to participate and present their research at the upcoming Teacher Education Students Conference (TESTCon).

The sharing ended with an exchange of gifts from the two universities and picture-taking sessions. The visitors toured the whole campus, including a short visit to the president’s office.

LANDSCAPING INTERNATIONALIZATION THROUGH STRATEGIC ALLIANCES: THE NAFSA 2023 CONFERENCE & EXPO

The internationalization of Cebu Normal University (CNU) is keen to involve the integration of international and intercultural dimensions to mark its position among the prominent educational institutions in Asia and the Pacific region. The National Association of Foreign Student Advisers (NAFSA) Annual Conference & Expo is a forum attended by professionals and international education leaders to discover emerging trends in student mobility, establish new partnerships, participate in networking opportunities, and identify upcoming marketplace needs. This year, NAFSA’s theme is “Inspiring an Inclusive Future.” As such, CNU embarked on this opportune mission aligned with the university’s internationalization priorities and strategies.

The External Affairs and International Linkages Office in response to the invitation from the Commission on Higher Education International Affairs Staff invited Dr. Ma. Socorro G. Manaloto, Dean of the CNU-Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC) College of Medicine, to represent CNU. CNU’s participation in the international forum is aimed at crafting comprehensive internationalization pathways, enhancing the international reputation, visibility, and branding of CNU, establishing new partnerships with international Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), and exploring collaborative opportunities in student and faculty mobility, curriculum development, and research.

Dr. Manaloto’s mission highlights include meetings with different United States HEIs and discussions on potential avenues for partnerships. For instance, the meeting with Lin Larson of the

College of Engineering of the University of Texas at Arlington offered a possible workshop collaboration with the College of Medicine  (COM) and College of Nursing for Medical Informatics; CNU COM curriculum includes Informatics for Level 2 students. The feasibility of exchange programs for both undergraduate and graduate levels in Biology, Psychology, and Medicine, were discussed with the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.

Other U.S. HEIs in connection were the Texas Tech University Health Service Center, Kansas State University, University of Arizona, Loyola Marymount University of California, and York College of Pennsylvania. The conversations encompassed academic and research collaborations, Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL), internship programs, and virtual simulations. The last day of the conference involved a final debriefing with Ms. Christine Grace Catindig of the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines.

Dr. Manaloto remarked that the NAFSA 2023 Conference and Expo has opened doors for internationalization and is a new step to global commitment.

CNU forges partnership with Chitkara University

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Cebu Normal University and Chitkara University was signed in a virtual ceremony on June 1, 2023, to formalize the engagement for international academic cooperation through promoting educational collaboration and cultural understanding.

The MoU stipulates the collaboration between CNU and Chitkara University of India through internationalization programs such as international mobility, joint bilateral academic and research meetings, joint research cooperation, and academic exchanges. The programs covered in this partnership include Psychology and Counseling, Mass Communication, Hospitality Management, Education, Health Sciences, and Liberal Arts.

The MoU Signing Ceremony was attended by Ms. Naila Y. Beltran, the Director of the External Affairs and International Linkages Office and the Internationalization Focal Persons of the College of Arts and Sciences, Dr. Jeson A. Bustamante and Dr. Jollibee A. Aharul. Dr. Genara B. Pacana also attended the ceremony on behalf of Dr. Filomena T. Dayagbil, the Officer-in-Charge of the Office of the University President, and Dr. Angeline M. Pogoy, the Vice President for Research, Extension, and Publication.

Chitkara University was represented by the Honorable Vice Chancellor Dr. Archana Mantri, as well as Dr. Amit Mittal and Dr. Rahul Pandey.

In her closing message, the Honorable Vice Chancellor shares her hopes for a cordial, fruitful, and impactful research collaborations.

After exchanging messages of commitment to the success of the partnership, a photo opportunity was held.

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