The Ateneo de Davao University through its Ateneo Internationalization for Mindanao (AIM) Office participated in the ZEITGEIST 2024, the first National Summit for International Students and Advisers of Philippine Higher Education Institutions held at Silliman University in Dumaguete City from 11-13 April 2024. With the theme, “Diversity and Inclusion: Embracing Differences, Driving Success,” the event is co-presented by the Philippine International Friendship and Understanding Association (PIFUA) and the University is represented by Ms. Chantal Moyo (1st Year, Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering); Ms. Thanaporn Insawang (3rd Year, Master of Arts in Guidance and Counseling); and Ms. Chen Yue (Second Year, Master of Arts in Teaching English Language and Literature), accompanied by the AIM Process Coordinator/Liaison Officer, Ms. Rikka Paula E. Comaingking.
The ZEITGEIST 2024 welcomed around 80 delegates from various Philippine universities: Adventist University of the Philippines, Ateneo de Davao University, Ateneo de Naga University, Centro Escolar University, Colegio de San Juan de Letran Calamba, Holy Name University, Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation, Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology, Miriam College, Naga College Foundation Incorporated, Negros Oriental State University-Bayawan Sta. Catalina Campus, Negros Oriental State University-Guihulngan Campus, Negros Oriental State University-Siaton Campus, Silliman University, Technological University of the Philippines Visayas, University of Batangas, University of San Carlos, and University of the Philippines Diliman.
The event started with the SU Campus Tour, highlighting the rich culture of Silliman University and was followed by the Opening Ceremonies, featuring words of welcome from Dr. Betty C. McCann, the President of Silliman University; Hon. Emmanuel L. Sagarbarria, the Governor of Negros Oriental; and Ms. Alma G. Tirona, the President of PIFUA. The words of welcome highlighted the advantages of International Students on Campus, emphasizing the diverse cultural perspectives, inclusive learning environment, promotion of cultural exchange, broadened worldview, and international competence. The presence of international students also contributes to a more vibrant and diversity-oriented educational environment.
After the opening ceremonies, the participants and guests were acknowledged, followed immediately by Dr. Edna Imelda Legazpi, Director IV of the Office of Student Development and Services (OSDS), Commission on Higher Education, who served as the first keynote speaker of the summit. She shared background information indicating that, in the Philippines, the top 5 International Students are from India, China, Nigeria, Korea, and Nepal. As a Director, she assured that the OSDS is very supportive of International Students, both in undergraduate and graduate programs, facilitating their holistic growth as students in the Philippines.
In the afternoon, Ms. Desiree Maxino, a former international student at Johns Hopkins University, shared her life experiences as an International Student, highlighting how education is equivalent to privilege and emphasizing that wherever one is, they are part of the learning ecosystem. For International Students, she noted the opportunities to learn from the local community, while the local community can also learn new concepts and perspectives from them.
Ms. Sharon Rose Dadang-Rafols, an artist and former Education Peace Officer of Silliman University’s Justice and Peace Center, VCSO in Uganda, serving as Training and Communications Advisor, was the second speaker for the afternoon sessions. She discussed and provided insights into culture, cultural awareness, and fostering cultural diversity, emphasizing the importance of this given the diverse cultural backgrounds of International Students in the Philippines.
After the talks, a Poster Presentation followed with the theme of “Campus Life through the Lens of International Students,” and the first night ended with a Gallery Walk and dinner.
The second day commenced with Ms. Thanaporn Insawang, one of the international students, synthesizing the activities of the first day. Following her brief synthesis, Mr. Daryl Robinson, former SUSG President and University Governor, shared his insights on “Building Cross-Cultural Bridges through Leadership.” He discussed his experiences overcoming initial challenges as an international student and how he promoted cultural exchange and collaboration as a student leader, eventually serving as President of the College and the entire institution.
The afternoon session on Day 2 featured Prof. Emervencia Ligutom, Former Director of Community Engagement and Service Learning, as the second speaker. She delved into community engagement, emphasizing its importance for student well-being and its role in extending learning beyond the classroom. Prof. Ligutom highlighted the value of sharing and concern for others, emphasizing that community engagement activities need not be grand but should involve everyone. This session prepared international students for an afternoon of Community Immersion, while advisers participated in a workshop on cultural diversity and inclusion in campuses facilitated by Mr. Rolando Jr. Villamero, Inclusive Education Advisor for the Middle East. Mr. Villamero began the workshop by defining inclusive education and discussing its significance in light of the increasing number of international students in the Philippines. He provided each adviser with an Index for Inclusion to assess the inclusivity of their respective universities.
In the evening, everyone prepared for the International Fellowship Night and Cultural Sharing event. Various activities were organized, allowing international students to showcase their cultures through traditional attire and presentations.
The last day of the summit consisted of sharing programs among the participating schools and hosting an open forum for international students. Questions were posed to the international students, moderated by Ms. Enrica Marian Dinopol, President of the SU Student Government. The international students also shared their insights and suggested programs that could benefit them, such as language classes and small group discussions. Following the session, certificates of participation were awarded to the schools, and closing remarks marked the end of the summit.
The ZEITGEIST 2024 provided an opportunity for international students across the Philippines to deepen their intercultural awareness, engage in meaningful interactions, and establish collaborative networks with students from other institutions.
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