From January 5 to 13, 2025, Biomedical Engineering students from Pusan National University (PNU), South Korea, visited the University of the Cordilleras (UC) for a week-long training and workshop with students from the UC Integrated School (IS). This activity, facilitated by the Global Engagements Office (GEO), was coordinated closely with IS Principal Ms. Larisa Baclangen and the Human Resource Development Office to ensure smooth logistical support and transportation for the PNU delegates.
The official opening ceremony was held on January 6, 2025, at the UC Auditorium, where the delegation was warmly welcomed. Dr. Christian Pascual, Director of the Global Engagements Office, delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing the importance of global collaboration and intercultural learning. Throughout the week, IS students engaged in interactive sessions led by the PNU Biomedical Engineering students, fostering hands-on learning and meaningful cultural exchange.
A key highlight of the visit was the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement on January 10, 2025, between the UC Integrated School—represented by Academic Director Mr. Ronaldo L. Pontanosa—and Pusan National University, represented by Director Ji Soo Shin. Supported by the Global Engagements Office, this partnership formally strengthened international cooperation between the two institutions. The MOA aims to advance cultural exchange, promote innovative educational practices, and equip learners with global competencies essential for success in an interconnected world.
As the week drew to a close, the PNU, IS, and GEO teams gathered on January 11 for a fellowship dinner to celebrate the successful completion of the program. The closing ceremony took place on January 13, 2025, at the UC Theater, where GEO presented the Global Education Champion Awards to IS instructors who played vital roles in organizing and facilitating the event.
This collaboration between Pusan National University and the University of the Cordilleras Integrated School stands as a significant internationalization milestone, strengthening institutional partnerships and providing UC students and faculty with valuable exposure to global learning practices. This initiative advances several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 4: Quality Education through globally enriched academic experiences; SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals by fostering strong educational linkages; and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities by promoting inclusive access to international and intercultural learning opportunities for students and faculty alike.
Photo courtesy of: University of the Cordilleras (Facebook Page)
