JOHOR BAHRU, Apr 8 – Building on the success of last year’s inaugural series, the International Seminar on Research and Academic Exchange between West Visayas State University (WVSU) and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Series II was launched in a grand ceremony. This event aimed to advance the efforts established last year and to celebrate the exchange students from WVSU. Organized by the Language Academy (LA) and the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities (FSSH) at UTM, this seminar was part of the Technology and Language Education (TLE) Research Group’s initiatives, in collaboration with the Faculty of Educational Sciences and Technology (FEST). The seminar took place in the Seminar Room at FEST, UTM Johor Bahru.
During the ceremony, Prof. Dr. Noraffandy Yahaya, Dean of FEST, officially launched the international teaching practicum between WVSU and UTM-FEST, FSSH, and LA with a meaningful welcome address. The Dean’s inspiring speech highlighted the commitment of both universities to fostering a global educational community.
Following this, Dr. Greta G. Gabinete, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension, delivered a virtual message acknowledging the ongoing support for research collaboration and innovation. Dr. Rosario Clarabel C. Contreras, Campus Administrator of WVSU Calinog, then provided a warm and sincere message of partnership, reinforcing a shared vision of academic excellence and sustained cooperation.
All four speakers from both universities presented their respective talks on various topics. Asst. Prof. Pamela F. Guevara emphasized the therapeutic power of dance in relieving stress and enhancing well-being. Dr. Elias C. Olapane discussed the praxis of Participatory Action Research in rural central Philippines, highlighting the importance of adapting qualitative research methodologies to local contexts. Prof. Ts. Dr. Zaidatun Tasir introduced the concept of “Teaching with a Third Mind,” which highlighted the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a third pillar alongside the student and educator. Lastly, Dr. Ungku Khairunnisa Ungku Nordin explored Digital Discourse in Online Spaces, focusing on language and gender.
The event concluded with a lively roundtable discussion featuring Prof. Dr. Yahaya, who expressed his full support for the partnership between UTM and WVSU. During the discussion, several potential collaborative activities, such as joint research initiatives and faculty exchange programs, were proposed to further enhance the relationship between the two institutions.
Nessie G. Pañada and Benjamin C. Copita Jr. are currently engaged in a month-long international teaching practicum at FSSH and FEST UTM. This initiative is part of a student mobility program established through the Letter of Collaboration (LoC) between WVSU and UTM. The program was initiated by Dr. Kew Si Na, the UTM Linkage Focal Person, and Dr. Elias Olapane, the WVSU Linkage Focal Person. This experience is expected to have a lasting impact on their professional development and future teaching practices while also promoting cross-cultural understanding and strengthening the partnership between WVSU and UTM.
Prepared by: Dr Kew Si Na & Lokman Hafiz Asary