The University of the Cordilleras (UC) successfully held the International Leadership Engagements for Academic Development (iLEAD) in Taiwan from June 12 to 16, 2025, reinforcing its steadfast commitment to internationalization and global academic collaboration.
The UC iLEAD is a flagship program of the Global Engagements Office (GEO) that aims to provide UC administrators and executives with global exposure through visits to partner institutions abroad. The program also serves as a platform for benchmarking international best practices, exploring opportunities for academic collaboration, and strengthening institutional partnerships.
Over the five-day program, UC delegates visited Kun Shan University and I-Shou University, where the university signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with each institution. These agreements pave the way for faculty and student exchange programs, joint research initiatives, internships, and other collaborative academic activities designed to enhance global learning and institutional development.
In addition, the UC delegation conducted ocular visits to hotels in Taiwan as potential partner establishments for the Student Internship Abroad Program (SIAP), particularly benefiting students from the College of Hospitality and Tourism Management (CHTM).
The UC delegation was composed of university administrators and academic leaders, namely:
VP Rhodora A. Ngolob (VP for Administration and Student Services); VP Janice S. Sergio (AVP for Finance); Mr. Dexter Hansel G. Apnoyan (College of Engineering and Architecture); Dr. Judith Odanee G. Magwilang (Dean, College of Nursing); Dr. Jeffrey S. Ingosan (Dean, College of Information Technology and Computer Science); Dr. Grace R. Tobias (Dean, College of Business Administration); Dr. Jasmin May P. Baniaga (Dean, College of Accountancy); Dr. Michelle M. Balinte (Dean, College of Hospitality and Tourism Management); Ms. Beverly B. Chapichap (Director of Libraries); Dr. Danilo L. Cong-o (Director of Sports Development); Ms. Roselyn M. Gama (Director, Campus Management Office); Mr. Peejay C. Natiola (Director, Center for Creative Production); Dr. Christian T. Pascual (Director, Global Engagements Office); Ms. Rodora D. Las Marias (Officer, Office of Quality Assurance); Mr. Engel M. Sabado (Officer, Human Resource and Development); and Ms. Sharlyn N. River (Financial Services Controller).
Through iLEAD, UC continues to expand its global network, forge sustainable academic partnerships, and create transformative opportunities that prepare its community to thrive in an increasingly interconnected and dynamic world.
This initiative contributes to SDG 4: Quality Education, by promoting inclusive, innovative, and internationally aligned learning opportunities; SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, by facilitating global internships and professional development; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, through strengthened collaborations with international higher education institutions.
