Academic Experience Sharing Sessions by Mentors and Mentees – Insights from the UTM-WVSU International Teaching Practicum

Lokman Hafiz Asary

JOHOR BAHRU, May 2 – The Language Academy, part of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities (FSSH) at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), proudly hosted the Academic Experience Sharing Sessions organised by the Technology and Language Education (TLE) Research Group, led by Dr. Ungku Khairunnisa. This inspiring event brought together mentors and mentees to share their valuable experiences from the UTM-WVSU International Teaching Practicum, promoting a spirit of global collaboration and cultural exchange.

Copita Jr. began the sharing session by reflecting on the practicum he completed at UTM Johor Bahru. He shared how the program significantly boosted his confidence in speaking English and introduced him to advanced educational technologies, such as attendance scanning systems, which he had never encountered before. He emphasised the importance of embracing cultural and language differences while adapting to new academic environments. His experiences included attending conferences, engaging in cultural exchanges through Malaysia’s cultural showcase, and participating in events like Hari Raya organised by the Language Academy.

Copita was grateful for the opportunity to develop both personally and professionally through this international collaboration.

Nessie Panada, mentored by Prof. Dr. Zaidatun and Dr. Kew Sina, shared her heartfelt experience of feeling at home during her practicum. She proudly showcased her culture through traditional Philippine dances, specifically the Pantomina De Albay and Binanog. Additionally, she highlighted the traditional attire worn during these cultural events, which includes the Filipiniana for women and the Barong Tagalog for men. This valuable experience inspired Nessie to pursue a master’s degree in Islamic Studies at UTM. Her presentation concluded with a lively musical performance where she and Copita Jr. sang “Thank You for the Happiness and Loneliness” and “All I Need Is Love,” expressing their emotions and the profound impact of their experiences through music.

Nessie Panada shared her positive experience of feeling at home during her practicum.

The FSSH Dean, Prof. Dr. Arieff Salleh bin Rosman, delivered a closing speech highlighting the university’s commitment to sustaining international educational collaborations. This was complemented by heartfelt addresses from esteemed mentors at West Visayas State University (WVSU), including Dr. Gretagabinate, Dr. Rosario Clarabel C. Contreras, Prof. Edel C. Subong C. Soka, Dr. Marie Candyl L. Celeste, Dr. Liela Buenviaje, and Assoc. Prof. Elias Olapane. They expressed their appreciation and shared insights about the ongoing partnership.

The event culminated in a certificate presentation ceremony led by Prof. Dr. Arieff. Certificates of appreciation were awarded to the participating students, acknowledging their resilience, adaptability, and passion for teaching—all essential qualities that will serve them well in their future careers. The mentors and buddies also received tokens of appreciation for their support and dedication.

Heartfelt wishes go out to Panada and Copita Jr. as they embark on their global teaching journeys. This event not only celebrated academic achievement but also reinforced the importance of international collaboration in shaping competent and culturally aware educators.

Prepared by: Lokman Hafiz Asary (Language Academy)