HED - APAC Philippines Special

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FEATURING INSIDE

CENTRO ESCOLAR UNIVERSITY

PHILIPPINE CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY

LORMA COLLEGES

UNIVERSITY OF THE ASSUMPTION

LYCEUM-NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY

A CENTURY-OLD SEAT OF SUPREME LEARNING

APRIL 2020

April 2020

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Higher Education Digest April 2020

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Higher Education Digest April 2020

April 2020

Vol - 2 Issue - 4

Universities & Colleges in Philippines Special (APAC Edition) Editor in Chief

Dr. Manoj Varghese

Managing Editor Rose Mary

Consultant Editors

Dr. Johny Andrews Andrew Scott Joseph Alex

Naomi Wilson Stanly Lui Emma James

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Art and Design Charlie Jameson

Sales & Marketing

Jennifer Anderson Rachel Roy

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Monica Davis Annie Smith

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Higher Education Digest April 2020 March 2019

MANAGING EDITOR’S NOTE

The Pearl of the Orient Beckons!

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ne of the main aims of higher education is to broaden perspectives. Moving away from your hometown, settling into a different culture, mingling with the people of another country truly opens a whole new window to the term “citizen of the world”. This experience underlines the simple fact that we are all, irrespective of color, creed, and race, ONE. We, as global citizens, have the right to attain exemplary education and work towards the betterment of the world. For years now, the US and Europe have been the favored education destination.

However, this has been changing in recent times. Thanks to its several high-class universities that charge much lower fees than the US or Europe, many students are favoring the Philippines as an attractive alternative.

Home to the largest Catholic university in terms of population, The Philippines’ recent education reforms have sought to boost enrollment levels, graduation rates and mean years of schooling in elementary and secondary education, and to improve the quality of higher education.

Given that the Higher Education sector is one of the most commodified items in the market, it is paramount to make informed decisions. However, what with the concerns all high schoolers, and other pursuers of education, have with respect to choosing the right career option and the mental requirements of university life, it is hard making

this decision. International students have it especially hard as not only should they prepare for higher education; they must also anticipate adapting to a new culture.

Especially in these trying times, where the world is fighting COVID-19 tooth and nail, international educational institutions that take extraordinary measures to ensure that its students are safe, protected and well-taken care of takes the cake. A tangible proof of these remarkable steps is the number of nationals in these institutions.

The Philippines caught our attention with Metro Manila, the capital, serving as a melting pot, hosting students from more than 60 countries, if not more. Hence, we at Higher Education Digest thought that it was of importance that we bring to you “10 Top Universities & Colleges in the Philippines for International Students” to help you take a reasoned judgement.

In this issue, we have also featured, apart from renowned industry experts, the inspiring story of Ayana Klein. She is living proof that the entrepreneurial bug sees no age.

Happy Reading!

Rose Mary

Higher Education Digest April 2020

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ADVISORY BOARD Dr. Kuldeep Nagi, Ph.D, MBA, BSc. Program Director of Ph.D, Recipient of Fulbright Fellowship Award & Dan Evans Award for Excellence and Writer columnist.

Major General (Rtd.) Dr. Sunil Chandra, VSM (Vishishta Seva Medal), Ph.D, M. Phil, MA, M.Ed, PGBDA Ex-M D Army Welfare Education Society, ExCOO GEMS Education - India, Ex- Addl Dir Gen - Army Education, Mentor - Adventure-Pulse

Dr.Varughese K.John, PhD, MBA, MPhil, MCom, LLB. Program Director, MS in Management Program, GSATM - AU

Dr. Venus M. Alboruto, PhD, Master Teacher, Researcher, Innovator, Trainer.

Dr. Ajay Shukla, Ph.D, MBA, BE.

Mr. Sreedhar Bevara, MBA, B.Com

Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Higher Education UAE

Senior General Manager: Panasonic Middle East & Africa, Thought Leader, Speaker & Author of ‘Moment of Signal’ (Amazon’s International Bestseller)

Mr. Amulya Sah, PGD PM & IR, PG Diploma in PM&IR (XISS Ranchi)

Shanthi Rajan (MSHRM, FHEA, AMCILT) Director, Institution Development, University of Stirling, RAK Campus, UAE.

Senior Director HR. Head HR group Samsung R&D Institute India,Transformative HR Leader, Change agent, Digitization facilitator, Engagement architect, Trainer and Diversity champion.

Asst. Prof. Dr. Suramya Mathai, Ph.D,M.Ed,MA,BA. Teachers Training Expert, Writer, Author, Speaker & Social Worker

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1800 123 289456

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INDUSTRY PERSPECTIVE

ACADEMIC VIEW

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30 - 33

64 - 66

You Won’t Learn Unless You Do It

Why Do We Study Humanities in a Tech-Driven World?

Xavier Mah, Founder, Xavier Mah Consultancy & XALF

Professor Martina Möllering, Executive Dean, Faculty of Arts, Macquarie University

Next Generation Workforce: How To Acquire Knowledge Through Experience In Changing Economy

Higher Education Digest April 2020

Leo Mrsic, Assistant Professor, Vice Dean for Research and Development, Algebra University College, Zagreb, Croatia, Europe

EE NN T TS S COVER STORY

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ST. PAUL UNIVERSIT Y PHILIPPINES A CENTURYOLD SEAT OF SUPREME LEARNING

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50 YOUNG ACHIEVERS

14 - 19 CENTRO ESCOLAR UNIVERSITY

A Paragon of Excellence

24 - 29 LORMA COLLEGES

Creating An Utopia Through Education

44 - 49 56 - 62 BLENDING CREATIVITY & STEM EDUCATION

WITH 3DUXDESIGN

PHILIPPINE CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY

Where Changemakers are Made

50 - 55 UNIVERSITY OF THE ASSUMPTION Education Digest CommandeeringHigher Future Leaders April 2020

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Higher Education Digest April 2020

I

n 1595, Spanish Jesuits founded The University of San Carlos in Cebu City making it the oldest school in the Philippines. Then in 1611, the University of Santo Tomas was founded in Manila by the Dominican Order.

It is the world’s largest Catholic university in terms of population. Both it and the University of San Carlos are older than Harvard, which was not founded until 1636. These facts are proof that the Philippines gave education its due attention.

They also understand the importance of doing little things. The island country passed a law under which every student has to mandatorily plant 10 trees to get their graduation degree. The rule, if implemented properly, will ensure that over 175 million trees will be planted every year. The bill known as ‘Graduation Legacy for the Environment Act’ has been unanimously passed by the House of Representatives, Philippines. The law will be applicable for college, elementary, and high school students as well.

Made up of more than 7000 islands in Southeast Asia, the Philippines has globally recognized universities that offer undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate studies and provides an affordable and quality education to more than 5000 international students every year. To date, there are 2300 listed colleges and universities in the Philippines, most of which are privately funded.

This year, during budget talks, a total of P8.349 billion was added to the budgets of the 114 SUCs, including P2.786 billion for the University of the Philippines System. The rest of the funds will be used by the SUCs for research awards and the conduct of activities for sports and development, ICT and campus modernization programs.

It is no wonder that the country’s positive attitude towards learning, the quality of many of its teacher education programs and the use of English as the medium for instruction make it a prime location for international students looking for quality higher education. Add to this the fact that the Philippine economy ranks among the best performers in Asia in recent years, you have a winner in the Philippines.

Inculcating the values of responsible citizenship, leadership, peace, tolerance, harmony, pluralism, and co-existence among the youth, the Philippines is ensuring individuals become worthy role-models for the coming generations.

We at the Higher Education Digest, with the help of our advisory panel consisting of senior academicians and practicing industry professionals, have compiled a list of “10 Must-Watch Universities in the Philippines for Foreign Students”. We hope that our efforts in showcasing these prime universities will help young aspiring international graduates take an informed decision in their respective educational journeys.

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Higher Education Digest April 2020

Name Ateneo De Manila University

Centro Escolar University (CEU)

De La Salle University (DLSU)

LORMA Colleges

Philippine Christian University (PCU)

Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP)

St. Paul University Philippines

The University of Santo Tomas (UST)

The University of the Philippines Diliman (UP)

University of the Assumption

Higher Education Digest April 2020

City Quezon City, Metro Manila

City of Manila, Metro Manila

Malate, Metro Manila

San Fernando, La Union

Malate, Metro Manila

Sta. Mesa, Metro Manila

Tuguegarao City, Cagayan

Sampaloc, Metro Manila

Quezon City, Metro Manila

City of San Fernando, Pampanga

April 2020

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CENTRO ESCOLAR UNIVERSITY

A PARAGON OF EXCELLENCE

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CEU Manila, CEU Makati-Legaspi Village, CEU Makati-Sen. Gil Puyat AvLe., CEU Malolos

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ibrada Avelino and Carmen de Luna were two visionaries who understood the necessity of a learning center for Filipino women that focused on teaching ideal womanhood, intelligent citizenship, and democratic leadership anchored on the tenets of science and virtue. Inspired by the patriotic movement to nationalize schools, they established the “Centro Escolar de Señoritas” on June 3, 1907, now known as the Centro Escolar University (CEU).

From a prospectus that initially offered Kindergarten, Elementary, General Secondary, Music and Home Arts courses, the University today offers more than 30+ undergraduate programs under Accountancy and Management, Education, Liberal Arts, Music and Social Work, Health Sciences— Medicine, Dentistry, Medical Technology, Pharmacy, Nursing, Optometry — Nutrition and Hospitality Management, Science and Technology, and Law and Jurisprudence; 30+ Master’s Programs; 15+ Doctoral programs; and several other diploma programs.

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OFFICERS OF ADMINISTRATION: STANDING (from left to right): Ms. Bernardita T. Traje, Asst. Controller; Mr. Cesar F. Tan, Treasurer,Asst. Corporate Secretary and Asst. Compliance Officer; Dr. Rhoda C. Aguilar, University Registrar; Mr. Jericho P. Orlina, Asst. VP for Business Affairs; Mrs. Ma. Rolina S. Servitillo, VP for Administration and Accounting; Dr. Carlito B. Olaer, VP for Student Affairs; Dr. Bella Marie L. Fabian, Asst. VP for Administration; Ms. Corazon M. Tiongco, Asst. Treasurer and Purchasing Department Head • SEATED (from left to right): Dr. Erna V. Yabut, VP for Research and Evaluation and Corporate Information Officer; Dr. Maria Flordeliza L. Anastacio, VP for CEU Malolos; Dr. Ma. Cristina D. Padolina, President and Chief Academic Officer; Dr. Olivia M. Limuaco, VP for CEU Makati; Dr. Teresa R. Perez, VP for Academic Affairs

Higher Education Digest April 2020

(From left to right): Dental Demo Room, Food Laboratory, Vision and Eye Care Center, Case Presentation Room

This diversity in the curricular offerings was not made overnight. Rather, it is the result of conducting bi-annual management review and strategic planning every three years, an initial and important part of which is the internal and external environment scanning to identify the University’s strengths and weaknesses and threats and opportunities in the education industry. This introspection resulted in updating the existing curricular programs and offering new ones. Additionally, the curricular offerings follow the outcomes-based education model, where the teaching-learning process is focused on turning out outputs and innovations through students’ problemsolving skills and creativity. Moreover, many of the curricular programs have entrepreneurship courses.

CEU is in partnership with Wadhwani Foundation to deliver this entrepreneurship program using the Foundation’s model.

Keeping in mind the academic needs of the students, CEU ensures to hire proficient faculty members. Most professors at CEU have either a Master’s or a Doctorate degree to their credit.

CEU further ensures that these professors teach subjects aligned with their particular specialization.

Moreover, CEU faculty members join rigorous training and development programs; they are also sent to training programs held in the country and abroad.

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Thanks to the proficient faculty, updated curricula, and modern teaching-learning methodologies and facilities, CEU students have been performing excellently in the licensure examinations. They have been consistently proving their mettle by achieving high passing percentage and becoming topnotchers in the fields of Dentistry, Optometry, Pharmacy, Medical Technology, Nursing, Nutrition and Dietetics, Education, and Social Work. Escolarians have also received numerous awards for athletics and its resident performing groups—the CEU Pep Squad and CEU Singers, who have been competing and winning in local and international competitions.

Higher Education Digest April 2020

The Sampaguita Interlude is a traditional ceremony held at CEU a few days before graduation day. Its beginnings date back to the year 1938 and from then on, it has become a significant event. The ceremony marks the formal turnover of duties and responsibilities of the graduating seniors to the juniors who will succeed them

(From left to right): Students under Cultural Exchange Program in the U.S, Students under Student Internship Abroad Program in Vietnam

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CEU Pep Squad

The University is dedicated to high standards of education, thus it constantly implements new and innovative approaches that enhance student engagement. “Students in both science and non-science programs are further exposed to and immersed in their fields of specialization through internship and practicum in either local or international companies or institutions,” said Dr. Ma. Cristina D. Padolina, CEU President and Chief Academic Officer.

A Haven for International Students CEU provides a seamless culture transition for international students by warmly welcoming and assisting them through the yearly operation of the College Freshman Assistance Center (CFAC). This aims to assist new students to adjust with ease to the University environment and impress upon the freshman students the caring culture of the University. “The various Schools in

Reprinted with permission from HigherEducationDigest.com

CEU conduct different freshman orientation sessions, all with the same purpose in mind— make them feel at ease and welcome them to our family,” said Dr. Teresa R. Perez, Vice President for Academic Affairs.

“We at CEU have qualities that we intend to instill in Escolarians, called Centro Escolar Expected Graduate Attributes (CEEGA), which are being lifelong learner, reflective and creative thinker, caring and trustworthy, proficient communicator, competent and productive professionals. Moreover, we ensure that along with academics, the curricula also work towards nurturing responsible citizens of the world,” she added.

CEU to be The University of the Future equips students with the required knowledge and skills for their careers while faithfully instilling essential values. Moving forward, it is the resolve of CEU to continue empowering and inspiring students, personnel, and its other stakeholders.

Higher Education Digest April 2020

INDUSTRY PERSPECTIVE

You Won’t Learn Unless You Do It

By Xavier Mah, Founder, Xavier Mah Consultancy & XALF

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started my career with the media industry by being a program producer media conglomerate in Malaysia and some existing online portals. After some time, I realized that I was more interested in brands and marketing.

Hence, I identified a pretty big advertising agency from the US and had an interview opportunity with them.

Everything went fairly well up until they asked me one particular question: “What does branding mean to you?”

Don’t get me wrong, I know what branding means but back then my perspective was restricted to the work I’ve done as a program producer.

So, I answered, “To me, branding is how one creates a storyline, edits it and conceptualizes as a package especially when it comes to the angle of the video. How we package the product through the screen will decide whether the branding is successful or not.”

He immediately corrected my answer and further elaborated on what branding truly is. What happened then? That’s right, I was rejected from the job opportunity.

It made sense why I didn’t get the job, I didn’t quite understand what they meant and I didn’t have the right answers. My perspective was too skewed towards my experience being a part of the media.

It took a few days for me to accept what had happened because I was so hopeful that it was going to happen for me. I was broken but I figured that it was the time for me to dive myself into this industry by hook or by crook. If no one is going to give me the opportunity, I was going to create one for myself.

After countless meetings with many people whom I respected, I began to understand what it took to

Higher Education Digest April 2020

create your own opportunities. It requires sacrifice and understanding – not only about the job or industry but also about your own self. So, I took the jump 8 years ago and today, here I stand.

Heading my own PR and Branding consulting firm and managing many clients from an array of industries, I’ve learned a thing or two about branding too – something which was quite alien to me in my early career days. It’s not just about the logo and colors you use for your brand. Although it is important for you to have appealing visuals to up-sell your business, it is equally important for you to convey a story and connect to people.

That is the key – the people! If no one and resonate with your brand and what it stands for, it will all be a waste. A brand is about the society, the feelings you can give them and how you can provide an experience. To make your brand even better, have a clear message and a great product. It is all about the whole package.

My point is, you will never know what the needs of an industry are if you’ve never actually been in it.

Yes, you can read books about it and watch videos to strengthen your knowledge. However, the most valuable component is when you’ve actually gone through mistakes and learn from them. For that, you cannot buy or garner anywhere else unless you give it a shot.

So, to all you students reading this, I urge you to persevere and keep on trying. I’ve failed many times in my life and that got me where I am today. Keep putting in the work and worry less. If an opportunity closes, be sure that one more will open.

Xavier Mah is a PR and branding strategist, who has worked with brands and media from numerous industries. Kickstarting his consultancy at the age of 26, he has serviced clients from Property, Beauty, F&B, Lifestyle & Fashion industries. Xavier has mastered the art of marketing and communications and has

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successfully brought unknown brands from ground up to being known by the intended market.

Xavier has also organized one of the first few women awards, #beaXsuperwoman that pays tribute to the incredible women of Malaysia. Moreover, he is also actively engaged by Universities to deliver talks on the importance of personal branding.

Xavier Mah

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LORMA COLLEGES CREATING AN UTOPIA THROUGH EDUCATION Higher Education Digest April 2020

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ith the Coronavirus epidemic scaring half of Asia, the need for proficient and efficacious healthcare personnel cannot be stressed enough. To create a tribe of strong healthcare experts, you need healthcare missionaries who can guide and shape keen minds to face the diverse challenges in the medical field. Dr. Crispina Lorenzana Macagba and Dr. Rufino N. Macagba Sr., wife and husband, were two such idealists, who, in 1934, started a small hospital out of their house.

Under these two pioneer physicians’ guidance, the hospital grew to the current 200-bed tertiary care LORMA Medical Center. However, it was in 1970 that Dr. Rufino L Macagba

Higher Education Digest April 2020

Jr, their son, started the School of Nursing, in response to the growing needs of the hospital and the community. Later, it was re-christened to LORMA Colleges. LORMA today has two campuses: the main Center for Health Sciences (CHS) Campus adjacent to the LORMA Medical Center in the City of San Fernando, and the extension campus in the seaside town of San Juan as the Center for Learning and Innovation (CLI), with a new college building ready in January 2020.

Celebrating its 50th golden founding anniversary in February 2020, LORMA has grown to be a higher education professional institution specializing in more than health care (nursing, medical laboratory science, radiologic technology, physical therapy, respiratory therapy, pharmacy, psychology) and foraying into technology (information technology, computer science, computer engineering, biomedical technology, digital technology), business (accountancy, business management, hospitality, tourism), and education (secondary education with a K-12 basic education school).

Pedagogical Innovations LORMAs’ students, often called as LORMAnians, are shaped through an accredited curriculum, a wide variety of industry exposures, and a holistic approach to their development as career professionals to include character, values, and communication, integral to leadership. The programs offered

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Higher Education Digest April 2020

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Nursing Clinical Graduation

are regularly reviewed for relevance in the industry, needs of the community, and global impact. While the Wellbeing Council at LORMA arranges for activities that aim at developing emotional intelligence and character development essential for career and employability, the LORMA Global Immersion Program provides various international and domestic linkages that the LORMAnians can take advantage of.

The LORMA Global Immersion Program (LGIP) is a 16- week immersion program designed to provide international students an intensive training on English and communication skills, professional ethics and skills in the work environment, cultural awareness, and building healthy relationships in the workplace with diverse cultural backgrounds.

Emphasizing on the several career prospects available to LORMAnians, LORMA offers various enhancement subjects through their respective departments. Along the same lines, all department laboratories are designed to provide hands-on learning. Moreover, LORMA has incorporated in the curriculum early immersion in actual

occupational settings. “Our various outreach programs provide the opportunity for students to practice professions in the community. Likewise, through English and foreign languages such as German, Mandarin, and Spanish enhancement programs, LORMAnians do not find it hard to gel with global citizens,” adds Dr. Carol.

Giving special focus to entrepreneurship, LORMA houses Enactus, an international organization focused on entrepreneurship. “There is a course in which students put up entrepreneurial booths throughout campus, followed by reporting of financial activity. Meanwhile, a new program is currently being developed with the HERO (Higher Employability Results & Opportunities) network of institutions incubator projects will be connected with the venture industry,” comments Dr. Carol.

Currently, LORMA has 216 teaching staff, 118 of who are master degree holders/candidates, 28 who are doctorate holders/candidates. “Many of the faculty are our graduates, therefore the quality of teaching is passed on from faculty with many years of experience not only in teaching but in their professions. As with many private

Higher Education Digest April 2020

28 schools in the Philippines at this time, there has been a challenge in maintaining our qualified faculty due to the exodus to higher-paying government-subsidized schools. Therefore, our students who are interested in teaching after graduation are being mentored early on. Scholarships are also being provided to faculty who pursue graduate studies,” says Dr. Carol Lynn R. Macagba, M.D., ABIHM, President of LORMA Colleges.

Fulfilling their alma mater’s mission of global service, LORMAnians hold key positions in hospitals in Philippines and abroad, especially in the healthcare field. “A sample departmental tracer study shows that in the College of Pharmacy, from 2014 to 2019, out of 223 graduates, 151 are registered professionals in the Philippines and 3 are registered in Nigeria, giving 69% registered pharmacists; over 74% are working in pharmacies, hospitals, manufacturing companies, government, and some are academic faculty. Our computer studies and business graduates also sit at various positions in local and national companies and government,” pinpoints Dr. Carol.

Higher Education Digest April 2020

Cultural and ASEAN festival

LORMA Colleges’ International Student Office collaborates with Student Affairs and a dedicated Welcome Office to ensure that international students feel at home at LORMA Colleges. Welcome Week is a special orientation program for freshmen and transferees held at the beginning of each school year. The International Student Organization is active with outreach programs and the much-awaited International Food Festival held every October. College of Education and Basic Education Schools, meanwhile, provide English for international students. Language and Heritage Institutes provide an additional resource for cultural immersion.

Sports programs including soccer, basketball, volleyball, archery, and marine sports (surfing, swimming) are popular venues for socialization.

Awards and Accolades LORMA has a Deregulated Status conferred by the Commission on Higher Education, one of only sixteen Higher Education Institutions in the country to be conferred this distinction. The reason being LORMA’s programs that are highly accredited by nationally recognized accreditation agencies as well as being awarded as Center of Development for computer studies. Active international collaboration with sister schools in South Korea (Hwashin Cyber University, Busan Kyungsang College, WooSong IT Education Center, Joongbu University) provides academic collaborations, student exchange programs, and cultural exchange.

Excited for the unveiling of The International Center for languages, culture, arts, and tourism/hospitality in 2020, LORMA intends to further develop Makerspace laboratories with industry collaboration for incubation and entrepreneurial ventures. As a champion for integrative health, LORMA is committed to a healthy environment: CHS Campus will have botanical gardens specializing in herbal medicinal plants, and CLI Campus as a heritage arboretum will preserve native coastal trees. New programs for inclusive education with a focus on special needs are also being developed at LORMA colleges. Furthermore, a center for professional development to focus on career coaching and employability is also being developed. “Hybrid online education has started with our graduate degrees in nursing and information systems; this will be further developed and extended to other programs,” concludes Dr. Carol.

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ACADEMIC VIEW

Why Do We Study Humanities in a Tech-Driven

World?

By Editorial Team

• What is your opinion about the Indian Liberal Arts/Humanities education ecosystem and talent available here?

I believe that there is an enormous amount of talent in the Liberal Arts/Humanities sector of the Indian education ecosystem, based on my experience with receiving Indian exchange students into our Liberal Arts and Humanities programs at Macquarie University. Students come to us with a sound humanities educational background and great enthusiasm for exploring a wide range of issues across the liberal arts.

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• You published a research paper titled ‘The value of Humanities’ recently. Do you believe Liberal Arts/ Humanities stream is seeing a rise in popularity globally again? What is the major reason behind it?

I absolutely believe that there is a rise in popularity for programs in Liberal Arts/Humanities. The demands of the modern workforce, and the future of work in more general terms, are changing due to increasing globalization and rapid technological developments. It is well recognized that students enrolled in a Humanities degree develop an extensive set of capabilities (such as critical thinking and problem solving) through their study of ideas, movements and theories in culture, society, history, language, reasoning and more. Their in-depth engagement with their respective discipline allows them to form a broad understanding of the world around them and the ways in which humans connect and interact. Humanities degrees involve many technical skills including quantitative analysis skills, policy development, software use and foreign language skills.

Employers have identified gaps between the demand and supply of transferable skills, in particular communication skills, and due to changes in the labour market these skills will be increasingly sought after, as the proportion of the work force with transferable-skill-intensive employment is forecast to steeply increase over the next decade.

Higher Education Digest April 2020

A degree in International Relations is one effective way of qualifying for the increasingly global context of business

Professor Martina Möllering is the Executive Dean, Faculty of Arts at Macquarie University, having previously served as Macquarie’s Head of Department of European Languages and Head of the Department of International Studies. As an expert of international standing in Language Studies and Linguistics, her research outputs have covered different areas of second language acquisition, pragmatics and intercultural learning as well as computer-assisted language

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learning. She has presented a substantial number of papers in these fields at national and international conferences and her research has been published in sole-authored and co-edited books, as well as in numerous book chapters and internationally recognized journals. In an exclusive interaction with the Higher Education Digest, Prof.

Martina Möllering talks about the rising popularity of Liberal Arts/ Humanities education, MQ’s new double degree program, and many more.

Martina Möllering

Higher Education Digest April 2020

• Why the popular perception in India that Arts stream does not offer great career opportunities for students is not accurate?

According to recent employability reports such as the one released by the Foundation for Young Australians in 2017, employers are increasingly looking for graduates who are able to articulate which highly transferable skills they have developed during their studies, and who are able to communicate and demonstrate these. Reports such as the Australian ‘Social Sciences Shape the Nation’ report, also released in 2017, articulate the complexity of the issues graduates will need to solve in ever changing national and global landscapes and the capabilities they need to activate to meaningfully contribute as employees and engaged citizens. Students studying humanities and Social Sciences subjects are acquiring high levels of literacy, as well as digital, cultural and interpersonal skills, which equip them to face the challenges our increasingly complex societies pose.

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• As the Executive Dean, Faculty of Arts, Macquarie University, what is your take on the major differences between Indian liberal arts education system and global studies? What should be the focus of Indian educators to reach the global standards of liberal arts education?

One of the core values that a Humanities degree instils is the ability to recognise, critically analyse and communicate different points of view – a core skill in today’s increasingly complex global settings that forms the basis for mutual understanding. Humanities studies have a major contribution to make in understanding how our society and economy can adapt to conditions of rapid change due to globalisation, rapid technological development (e.g. Artificial Intelligence) and changes to economic structures.

Humanities students will be well equipped to face these challenges with a critical mindset and a welldeveloped ethical compass that enable them to make a contribution in a wide range of national as well as global professional settings. Often, though, students in the Humanities are not fully aware of the skills and abilities they acquire during their studies and education systems around the world should focus more on making the acquisition of these skills a salient feature of a degree in the Liberal Arts/Humanities.

Higher Education Digest April 2020

• With ever more business seeking to expand their operations across the borders, there is a rising demand for professionals with global mindset. Why Indian students should consider getting a degree in International Relations?

A degree in International Relations is one effective way of qualifying for the increasingly global context of business. The Faculty of Arts at Macquarie University is committed to the notion that a broad humanities-based educational offering, combined with appropriate transformative learning experiences in an applied context, is a crucial element in providing outstanding employment outcomes for graduates globally. Macquarie University is well positioned to capitalise on this opportunity because of its focus on humanities education throughout its history. Further, the strong performance of the Faculty of Arts over many years up to the present moment (currently #100 in Times Higher Education) and the disciplinary breadth offered by the University, in the form of more than 70 qualifying Majors is an excellent base to produce graduates with an adaptable set of capabilities that renders them attractive to a wide range of employers globally.

• Many Indian students go abroad each year for higher education in various educational institutes all over the world. Can you share us an integral know-how on a student’s life abroad, especially in Australia? What are the pros and cons?

Indian students coming to Australia for their higher education generally find the experience to be a very positive one. They find Australian society to be inclusive and safe, and many reports that it is easy to make new friends on campus and beyond. At Macquarie University, this is helped by our strong focus on collaborative learning, where students often work in teams and support one another.

• What are the biggest concerns you hear from students while opting for studies abroad? At the Macquarie University, how do you help them overcome that?

One concern for students opting to study abroad is how they will fit in to the Australian higher education context and whether they will be able to successfully complete their program of study.

Our experience with students coming to us from

• Tell us about the various program offered by MQ’s Faculty of Arts – which are seeing growing interest from Indian students?

Macquarie University’s Faculty of Arts offers a very wide range of programs, ranging from Law, Security Studies and Criminology, across the Social Sciences, such as Sociology and Anthropology to the whole range of Humanities subjects, such as Ancient and Modern Languages, Ancient and Modern History, Philosophy and Literature Studies. We also offer programs in Media and Communication Studies which have proven to be particularly popular with international students across the globe.

Humanities degrees involve many technical skills including quantitative analysis skills, policy development, software use and foreign language skills

India is that they are well prepared to take up higher education in Australia and that they generally do well or even very well in their Liberal Arts/Humanities programs. At Macquarie University, we place a lot of emphasis on the student experience – for our domestic as well as international students – which means that we support our students through orientation programs and offer opportunities for them to meet other students right at the start of their study program. The new BA program introduced at Macquarie University in 2020 has a strong focus on building a coherent cohort of Humanities students, where collaborative work is the norm rather than an exception.

• Tell us more about the New double degree program being launched by MQ in 2020 (Master of Creative Industries and Master of Marketing, Master of Creative Industries and Master of Media and Communications and Master of Marketing and Master of Media and communications).

Our Media and Communications programs have proven to be very popular with international students as they equip students with an understanding of emerging media and industry practices, as well as traditional communications. At Macquarie University students learn from award-winning experts, using professionalstandard facilities to gain the expert insights and the practical skills needed to succeed in the creative industries of the present and future. Our courses explore the cultural, social, international and linguistic contexts of the evolving world of communications and develop skills across print, online and multimedia and students study communications from a diverse array of perspectives to prepare themselves for living and working in our globalised world. With the relevant entry qualifications, our double degrees can be completed over a period of two years.

• What is your advice to the India students who wish to study Liberal Arts and International Relations abroad?

My advice would be to contact the institutions abroad and to explore their websites in depth to gain an understanding of the programs offered. Macquarie University has a number of staff on the ground in India who are always willing to talk to students about the programs we offer and to advise on entry criteria and other formalities.

(In conversation with Professor Martina Möllering, Executive Dean, Faculty of Arts, Macquarie University)

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A Y R U T N CE OLD OF T A E S E M E R P U S G N I N R A LE ry

se Ma

By Ro

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University should be a place of light and learning. With time, an ideal university should polish its methods and practices to present itself as a beacon of progress and excellent learning.

One such university is St. Paul University Philippines (SPUP). Established by the Sisters of St. Paul of Chartres (SPC) on May 10, 1907, as Colegio de San Pablo, St. Paul University Philippines, for more than a century, has proven its tradition of excellence and untarnished reputation of providing quality, Catholic, Paulinian education.

The first University and Catholic University in Cagayan Valley in 1982, SPUP has seen the changing industry requirements, the rise of global citizens, and the speed at which technology has been progressing.

These experiences have equipped SPUP with a vast knowledge reserve, thus enabling it to adapt its pedagogy to the dynamic demands of the Industrial Revolution 4.0.

Apart from Basic Education (K to 12), SPUP currently offers 80+ courses under various departments such as School of Arts, Sciences & Teacher Education, School of Business, Accountancy and Hospitality Management, School of Information Technology & Engineering, School of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences, School of Medicine,

Higher Education Digest April 2020

Graduate School, and Center for Adult Learning and Continuing Professional Education.

Artfully Progressing with Time and Exigence SPUP has ventured into the inclusion of new technology, such as Coding Education that includes Robotics, AI, IoT, Automation, and Genomics among others, Foreign Languages (French, Mandarin, Spanish etc), Augmented Reality, and Service Learning into the curriculum, coupled with character formation and student development programs. SPUP has also ingeniously weaved the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations into the student study programs and student development activities. “SPUP has crafted graduate attributes as a goal of the University in ensuring that the students will be industry- and work-ready and that they will be able to perform their tasks as future professionals. Their actions will always be anchored on the Paulinian Core Values,� says Sr. Merceditas Ang, SPC, Ph.D., University President, St. Paul University Philippines.

In SPUP creativity and innovation are advanced through technology-based, research-driven, valueladen and student-centered learning. Students are provided with opportunities and experiences of showcasing their ingenuity through their projects,

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creative outputs, and performance-based tasks. SPUP is further equipped with laboratories, incubation and simulation centers where students can display or demonstrate their creative works.

SPUP also provides for an authentic learning experience towards the development of learners who are computational and creative thinkers, innovative designers, communicators, knowledge constructors, and global collaborators.

A testament to SPUP’s salubrious upbringing of its students is that SPUP was featured as Outstanding University in the Philippines by the Association of Accredited Schools of Business International (AASBI) in December 2019. SPUP houses learning spaces that are both strategically placed within university buildings and outside, in the lush open gardens.

Similarly, study areas are provided in St. Paul Home (Student Residences), which also serve as discussion corners. To determine the students’ academic and personality development needs, SPUP Guidance Counselors hold regular sessions with them. Furthermore, student advising is strictly observed in SPUP, where a faculty adviser is assigned to a group of students. Together with the Academic Deans and Program Coordinators, these advisers monitor the development of the students academically from their first day up to graduation.

This brings us to the faculty team at SPUP who are every bit as resourceful and learnt as SPUP is.

Professional Development is anchored on the thrust of the University to ensure quality teaching and learning. SPUP offers scholarship assistance to faculty members aspiring for their graduate degrees and facilitates the grant of scholarship from other agencies or institutions. Moreover, SPUP continuously sends its faculty members to various seminars, workshops, training and conferences aligned with their respective fields of expertise in the Philippines and abroad.

Several faculty members hold officers’ positions in various national professional organizations, while some are (blind) peer-reviewers and editors in recognized international and national journal publications. Many professors and instructors

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Sr. Merceditas Ang, SPC, Ph.D., University President, St. Paul University Philippines.

are also national trainers in various fields tapped by the Commission on Higher Education, Department of Education, Department of Health and Department of Social Welfare and Development, among others. In this case, the faculty members can share new knowledge and current trends in education and research to the students and colleagues.

Masterful Collaborations and Linkages Thanks to its repute of being a seat of excellent higher learning, SPUP has the fortune of partnering with various international, national, and local institutions, organizations (governmental and non-governmental), and industries thus providing varied opportunities for the students in

the different fields of studies. SPUP’s industry linkage spans from educational institutions, 5-star hotels, major business enterprises, government offices, IT and Engineering firms, to hospitals and pharmaceutical companies – all of which are contributory to SPUP students’ well-being and development of their full potentials as professionals. At present, SPUP has 153 international linkage partners from 15 countries and various local and international educational institutions and industries in the Philippines. The industry partnership and collaboration of SPUP are taken very seriously not only to satisfy the UN-SDGs but also to ensure ample exposure to SPUP graduates.

“The Child ProTECT (Child Protection Towards Enabling Childhood Development and Community Transformation) project of the Community Development Center, in partnership with Child Fund International on child education and total development; programs and projects, in partnership with the Department of Health (DOH), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the Department of Education (DepEd), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and other government agencies of the Republic of the Philippines, and, partnership activities with the World Council for Curriculum and Instruction, National Association of UNESCO Clubs in the Philippines and the Japanese Embassy in the Philippines, all account to the fulfillment of the 17 SDGs in terms of accomplished

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and on-going projects of, by, and at SPUP,” says Allan Peejay M. Lappay, Ph.D., Director, Alumni, External Relations and Advocacies Currently an active member of the World Council for Curriculum and Instruction (WCCI), the Association of Southeast and East Asia Catholic Colleges and Universities (ASEACCU), and the Association of Christian Universities and Colleges in Asia (ACUCA), SPUP is also one of the 12 universities in the Philippines selected by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) as participant in the ASEAN International Mobility for Students (AIMS) Programme of SEAMEO-RIHED and showcased by CHED in the Asia-Pacific Association for International Education (APAIE) Conferences and Exhibits. Moreover, SPUP is the first and the only university in the Philippines accepted as a member of the China-ASEAN Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Education Alliance of Universities.

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Education to One, Education to All SPUP’s phenomenal growth to showcase itself as a seat of learning has led to the University welcoming quite a few foreign applicants. In fact, for the past five years, there has been a tremendous increase in the number of international students from 11 in the first semester of AY 2014-2015 to 160 in the first semester of AY 2019-2020, enrolled in various programs, from basic education to graduate school, as well as several inbound students for short period language course, internship, cultural immersions and as full-time credit transfer exchange students for 1 semester. Another reason why SPUP stands as a preferred destination for foreign aspiring graduates is the admirable activities of SPUP’s International Relations Office. Right from assisting the international students in various ways, starting from dealing with application and admission, quarantine/health and VISA procedures and annual reporting with the Bureau of Immigration of the

Philippines, to holding general orientation at the start of every academic year for all foreign students and organizing sessions per group or per country, depending on the needs of the students, the department does an admirable job to ensure all students feel welcome at the university.

Moreover, the International Students Organization also plays its part to help foreign students have representation in university activities. An International Students Integration Program is conducted every year where the international students showcase their cultural dances, cuisines, and significant artworks. Most of the international students stay at the St. Paul Home (University Hostel) where they are given full orientation, guidance and mentoring by staff and their fellow students, local and international. As once mentioned before, SPUP enjoys fruitful linkages with the corporate and educational community, thus offering cultural and industry immersion programs for students and faculty members in different countries, such as the USA, Japan, Australia, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, China, Taiwan, and India as well as with various major industries in the Philippines. “Since SPUP is an emerging internationalintercultural university, the international students are immersed with the mainstream of students, so they mingle with local students and create a buddy system. Some international students are now student leaders, artists, and members of the University’s varsity teams in various sports events,� says Jeremy Godofredo C. Morales, Ph.D., Director, International Relations.

Championing Independence Since The 90s It is commendable that SPUP understood the importance of entrepreneurship as early as the 90s when it first formed the Community Development Center (CDC). It was also a social enterprise that aimed at empowering women and small community groups of the local village. The Center helped the then blacksmiths through micro-financing, which, fast forward today, is the common indigenous job in the area.

Moving forward, SPUP has created a strategic roadmap to engage its members (faculty, staff, and learners) to survive and thrive in a highly globalized and technology-driven in the era of Industrial Revolution 4.0. Endeavoring for a holistic and transformative education, SPUP plans to polish its resources on Coding Education, Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, use of Augmented Reality books, offering of Foreign language and ASEAN studies, Global Citizenship Education, enhancement of e-learning modules and platform of delivery, conduct of national and international conferences and symposia, research publication, partnership and network in the academe and industry sectors, and, international immersions and exposures.

SPUP, thanks to its open mind and 20/20 vision, has been a lighthouse for the education community for over a century.

It is a safe bet to comment that it will continue to uphold this responsibility for decades to come.

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PHILIPPINE CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY

THE POWER TO TRANSFORM Higher Education Digest April 2020

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EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY. A learned person knows that the more educated he becomes, the more things he does not know. Education is a non-stop learning process that seeks holistic and beneficial transformation of the individual and the society in which he lives in.

VISION. The founders of PCU were Protestant churches belonging to The United Methodist Church and United Church of Christ in the Philippines. Towards this end, Philippine Christian University (PCU) was established to develop the power of reason, to liberate people from ignorance, penury, and hopelessness and empower them to commence their journey for social and economic transformation, and spiritual salvation.

FOUNDATIONAL VALUES. The foundational values that constitute the transformational paradigm of PCU are Faith. Character and Service.

Winston Churchill said that, “Success is stumbling from failure to failure without losing enthusiasm.” Analogous to this, Junifen F. Gauuan, Ph.D., University President, would say that at PCU, ‘Faith - is stumbling

Higher Education Digest April 2020

Junifen F. Gauuan, Ph.D., University President Philippine Christian University Junifen F. Gauuan completed his PhD in Development Administration (2007) from the Philippine Christian University, Manila.

He finished his Bachelor of Science in Business Economics (with Merit) and M.B.A. degrees from the University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City. He had been a National State Scholar of

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the Department of Education (1972-76), UNIVAC Summer Scholar (1977), a recipient of AIDAB Fellowship for Rural and Environmental Development at Macquarie University in Australia (1995) and the FAPE-UNICEF Fellowship for Higher Education Management in Asia at SEAMEO-INNOTECH, Quezon City (1998). Dr. Gauuan has extensive management, research and development experiences in the fields of business, governance, education, health, information system, rural marketing and finance, agro-forestry and environment. Dr. Gauuan has served in the Governing and Advisory Boards of government, educational, civic and religious organizations. He had been Church Council Chairman of Bayombong United Methodist Church (1996-2014), a regular member of the Northeast Philippines Annual Conference and the Philippines Central Conference, and a 2004 Delegate to the General Conference of The United Methodist Church in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA. Dr. Gauuan is currently President of Philippine Christian University and ICA Associates Philippines, Inc. He is a Trustee of the Association of Christian Schools, Colleges and Universities (ACSCU), Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations in the Philippines (COCOPEA) and the South Manila Educational Consortium (SMEC). He also served as President of Aldersgate College, Solano Nueva Vizcaya (October 1982 – May 2014) and Board Chairman of Wesleyan University Philippines, Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija (2010-2014).

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47 over foolishness and ignorance without losing the enthusiasm to discover the truth’; ‘Character – is stumbling on weaknesses and failures without losing the zeal for perfection!’; and ‘Service – is stumbling against greed and selfishness without losing the passion for holiness!’

MISSION. The PCU Mission is to: 1. Synthesize the teaching of spirituality, religion and the sciences.

2. Inculcate critical and innovative thinking, technological fluency and multicultural skills.

3. Educate individuals to think and act as ethical leaders and responsible citizens in the global community.

4. Deliver affordable, flexible and collaborative educational programs using systems and resources that comply with international standards of quality, professional licensure and practice; and 5. Offer career pathways and migration channels through a network of transnational institutions, professional guilds and accrediting agencies.

Today PCU has grown into an institution that is responsive to national and global developments. PCU offers complete programs in Basic Education. It also offers numerous Bachelors, Masters and PhD degree programs in diverse disciplines and fields of specialization.

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The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) is the governing body covering both public and private higher education institutions as well as degree-granting programs in all tertiary educational institutions in the Philippines. CHED also granted PCU an AUTONOMOUS STATUS. The Federation of Accrediting Agencies of the Philippines was established in 1977 and is authorized by the Philippine Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to certify the quality levels of accredited programs at the tertiary level, for the purpose of granting progressive deregulation and other benefits

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ACSCU-AAI is the official accrediting body which evaluates all Christian (non-Catholic) higher education institutions (HEIs) in the Philippines.

NICP is the recognized national organization of ICT Councils in the Philippines. Our organization serves as the venue for collaboration and sharing of best practices for our member organizations. Through the years, our organization has served as the unified voice for the Philippine Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Sector. We work tirelessly to promote ICT all throughout the country and support each of the councils endeavors in order to help strengthen the ICT in their areas and create more jobs for the Filipinos.

PCU is also ISO 9001:2015 certified. ISO is an international standard dedicated to Quality Management Systems (QMS). It outlines a framework for improving quality and a vocabulary of understanding for any organization looking to provide products and services that consistently meet the requirements and expectations of customers and other relevant interested parties in the most efficient manner possible.

With 775 Methodist educational institutions around the world, the vision of IAMSCU is to develop a dynamic, worldwide network of member institutions, resulting in effective inter-institutional cooperation and collaboration to prepare a new generation of Christian leaders.

LEARNING PROCESSES. PCU ensures quality educational processes by adopting flexible, innovative and effective learning methodologies, such as: • Online and Blended Learning • Project Research and Collaborative Learning, and • Immersion in best practices and systems FACULTY. PCU is discriminating in its selection of Faculty. Both academic training and industry experience are highly valued. Thus, PCU maintains a pool of regular and adjunct faculty who are recognized experts in their respective fields. Scholarships and grants are readily available to interested faculty. Continuous professional growth is sustained by regular up-skilling and re-tooling seminars.

Membership in guilds and professional organizations are encouraged. And development-oriented research and community extension services are strongly supported.

SOCIAL IMMERSION. Students undergo industry and community immersions as a reinforcement of academic learning. Oftentimes, these exposures provide entry-points for eventual professional engagement and employment.

CAMPUS-BASED LEARNING. Through the years, PCU has become an oasis for foreign students coming to the Philippines from Africa, South and Southeast Asia.

Linkages are currently being strengthened to admit more students from Ghana, Indonesia, Thailand, Cambodia and China.

ACADEMIC EXTENSION PROGRAMS. While PCU presently operate only 3 campuses in the Philippines, its Academic Extension Program for working professionals is nation-wide in scope, mostly concerned with graduate programs. Extension classes are held in various offices and

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COURSES OFFERED

learning centers in partnership with public, business and private organizations.

TRANSNATIONAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS. PCU has established Transnational Education Programs (TNE) in Dubai, Thailand, Sri Lanka and Cambodia.

Upcoming TNE engagements are with Ghana, Indonesia, Vietnam and China ONLINE LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (OLMS). PCU is currently using various platforms to ensure availability of Campus-based Learning, Academic Extension Programs, and Transnational Education Programs. OLMS contains all the learning materials necessary to complete any course. It, therefore, functions as the Mixing Panel for Curriculum-based Learning. OLMS provide access for all Inputs (instructional modules) and Outputs (tests, reports, assessments). Its essential characteristics are as follows: • Standardized Course Contents. The contents of Instructional Modules are in conformity with local and international Policies and Standards for Higher, Technical and Vocational Education.

• Systematized Course Syllabi. The Course Syllabi format is integrated, self-contained and modularized.

It includes the Course Number, Course Title, Dean’ Information, Instructor’s Information, General Objective,

Topics, Enrichment Activities, References & Educational Materials, Case Studies, Assessment Tools, Time Frames, Book References, Grading Policy, and Required Papers.

It incorporates all the necessary information for enriched individualized learning.

• Multi-media. Various forms of multi-media such as PowerPoint Presentations, Video, Audio and Graphics are incorporated as hyperlinks in the Course Syllabi.

• Digitalized. The Course Syllabi modules, along with the multi-media materials they contain, are produced and distributed in digital formats to facilitate individual and group learning in stand-alone, local area network and web-based systems.

• Comprehensive Testing and Remediation. An option is provided for Computer-Aided Audit Review and Testing System (CAARTS) based on the Standardized Course Contents to facilitate swift and cost-effective evaluation of student performance.

• Online Education. The digitized syllabi and multimedia can be uploaded to and accessed from the Online Education Website for learners enrolled in pure distance education or blended classroom-online education programs.

PCU is using NEO Learning Management System and G Suite for Education for self-paced individual learning and group-oriented virtual classroom learning.

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UNIVERSITY OF THE ASSUMPTION

COMMANDEERING FUTURE LEADERS

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J

esus Christ spent about three-fourth of his 33 years of existence teaching. He devoted his time to teaching the value of living a disciplined life. He taught the importance of showing compassion, standing for what is right, and being an example to fellow human beings. There are a lot of educational institutions that follow His teachings.

However, for over 5 decades, the University of Assumption has been diligently preaching and practicing His teachings to a T, shaping academically competent, morally upright, and socially responsible leaders.

Founded in 1963 by the then Archbishop of San Fernando (Pampanga) Philippines, University of the Assumption (UA) is the first Archdiocesan Catholic University in Asia. Currently, UA has

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52 Rev. Fr. Joselito C. Henson, S.Th.D., President, University of the Assumption

under its umbrella several schools and colleges including the School of Arts and Sciences, School of Business and Public Administration, and School of Education.

UA offers a plethora of courses under various disciplines: Bachelors of Science in Accountancy, Architecture, Business Administration (Marketing and Operations Management), Engineering (Civil, Computer, and Industrial) Hospitality and Tourism Management, Information Technology, Library and Information Science, Psychology, Human Services, Teacher Education, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Bachelor of Arts in Communication.

The Graduate and Postgraduate programs offered by the University are Master in Business Administration, Master in Public Administration, Master of Arts in Guidance Counseling, Theological Studies, and specialized Masters of Arts in Education (MAEd) in Educational Management, Early Childhood, English, Mathematics,

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Physical Education and Teaching Filipino. Other than this, the University also offers Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) with a major in Educational Management.

Exemplary Pedagogical Efficacy UA ensures that the teaching-learning methodology followed is multi-faceted where classes are conducted in alternating approaches: online, individual, collaborative, face-to-face, experiential, game-based, immersive, practical, career, and outcomes-based. Moreover, research is integrated into all courses, where students are empowered to verify and create knowledge. This system enriches the learning experiences of the students so that they can share pieces of life’s realities while developing their intra and interpersonal skills. “UA sees its presence in the global community as a generator of industry-based and career-based professionals.

Partnering with various industries, organizations, and institutions provide nourishment to our ever-evolving curriculum-making education in UA relevant to the lives of our students and responsive to the demands of the global economy. Generally, our industry collaborations are driven by our goals for global citizenship,” says Rev. Fr. Joselito C. Henson, S.Th.D., President, University of the Assumption.

The faculty team at UA comprises academicians, industry partners, and practitioners who are highly qualified to handle the courses and draw out the best from their students. “We value the instructional principle that quality education is a balance between the faculty and the facility”. Through this, we deliver quality and responsive teaching-learning experiences through fusing information and creation so that we can engage our students to be productive. To realize this, we constantly engage the faculty in continuing education, research, and lifelong learning exposures locally and internationally,” pinpoints the President.

Guided by its three-pronged mission: Virtus/ Christian Formation; Scientia/ Academic Excellence; and Communitas/ Community Service), UA provides a holistic education for the students through its highly qualified and committed faculty that equip its students to be persons of character and competence. The curricular programs, instruction, facilities, and student services blend together in preparing the students for their fruitful journey in their respective careers guided by the teachings of the Catholic Church.

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Nursing Arts Lab

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“The students may be our immediate clients, but we see through them that the world is our real client. We construe education as preparing and equipping skilful students to become competent global citizens. We capitalize on experiential teaching and hands-on-minds-on learning so that our students shall acquire, verify and create knowledge.

We let them experience various socio-economic issues, trends, and challenges related to their field of specialization and provide them the opportunity and support to make them adapt to global changes and be productive,� explains Rev. Fr. Joselito C. Henson, S.Th.D. A Haven for International Students Welcoming international students with open arms, The University of the Assumption, situated in Central Luzon, exposes international visitors from partner institutions to various settings that would make their visit a oncein-a-lifetime learning experience that they will joyfully bring back home.

Staying true to the hospitable essence of The Philippines, a nation that is exceptionally rich in cultural and historical heritage and exquisite tourist destinations across the more than 7100 islands with numerous friendly and highly sociable ethnic groups, the university customize their cultural immersion and exchange programs according to the academic and social purposes of our visiting communities that will surely make their stay loaded with blissful learning activities and worthwhile memories. “Our inbound immersion program is intricately designed to gradually support the international visiting participant with its series of activities

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such as orientation forum, local language, and culture-adaptive simulations, local-foreign buddy system, culture, and religion-sensitive approaches, curriculum-based learning experiences, safety and security services, and facilities, having an on-campus hotel where our visitors may opt to stay,” adds Rev. Fr. Joselito C. Henson, S.Th.D. A Catholic university that religiously upholds its philosophy and mandate, the University of Assumption may seem not as popular and aggressive as the major universities in the Philippines but the university has a stellar record of bringing forth well-molded and values-grounded intellectual citizens who are socially and ethically responsible. UA has so far produced government officials, business owners and leaders, professionals, and citizens – all of whom are known for their integrity and religiosity who have never been involved and seriously malicious political causalities in the society.

Moving forward, the University of Assumption has a lot of plans that would keep it at pace with the ever-changing global demands. One of the university’s major visions is becoming a recognized “Global University”.

“We are currently stepping up the ladder of internationalization and globalization that is why we have opened our portals to international people to diversify our educational community. We have already subscribed to notable global educational platforms and are now engaging in local and international mobility and exchange to propel us toward that vision,” concludes Rev. Fr. Joselito C. Henson, S.Th.D., President, University of the Assumption.

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YOUNG ACHIEVERS

BLENDING CREATIVITY 56

STEM

& EDUCATION

WITH 3DUXDESIGN

By Navya Venkatesh

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e have all gone through the situation where we need the experience to land a job and need a job to get experience. This struggle exemplifies how much the job market values experience. One of the best ways to make the most of education is to gain the experience that companies want through project-based learning. With the wave of globalization hitting us, it is important to make learning and education an experience that is beyond classroom academics. Learning happens when our minds are open. It happens to the optimum level when our minds explore and get first-hand experience. We learn better by making mistakes, not by doing nothing with the fear of failure.

Ayana Klein strongly believes that we learn by experiencing the world around us.

She realized that the concept of Project-Based learning will help children be engaged in the whole process of learning and grasp ideas better. A combination of inspiration, innovation, and imagination, they encourage children to imagine and practically think through solutions to real-world problems by building structures and environments.

Currently a sophomore at the Washington University, Ayana is passionate about educating, inspiring and empowering youth at a global level. Growing up, she was always quick and on her toes when it came to creative thinking and improvising.

When it came to gifts, the Klein household has one rule, “The best gifts are made with our hearts, our hands, and any materials already in the house. They are not bought at a store.�

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The Kleins

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So, when holiday shoppers were running around stores to get the best Black Friday deals, Ayana and Ethan, her brother, were found rummaging through recycling bins for interesting materials to make gifts out of. They would make townhouses, parking garages, pinball machines, and tiny homes for their family pets out of the waste they found.

Learning physics while making an elevator pulley and getting to know about electric circuits while creating arcade games played a huge role in helping them imagine, design and build something for the people they love and cherish.

When Ayana joined the summer architecture program at Columbia University in NYC, she learned how architects could bring out creativity and design from sciences, math, engineering, and the natural environment. How the architects used space, how that space blends in and interacts with the environment intrigued her to a great extent. She felt architecture brings the arts, the sciences, the natural environment and humanity at crossroads, and architects exhibit humanity and empathy into the design process, which is missing from today’s world that is digitally plugged.

Creating 3DuxDesign Inspired by how architects work and connecting her early childhood experience of building forts with her family, along with the models she made in the summer program classes, with the disciplines of Architecture and Urban Design, Ayana Klein came up with the idea of 3DuxDesign.

She started the venture of 3DuxDesign, along with her brother Ethan Klein, with an aim to inspire today’s youth to become tomorrow’s innovators. 3DuxDesign is an architectural modeling system that lets children build anything they can imagine.

At just the age of 16, while shadowing IDEAZ, an industrial design firm, she was awestruck by their 3D Printer, which made her realize that she could make connecters with the help of a 3D Printer, that helped build her models much easily and quickly. These connectors can be used again, helping children to make as many iterations as they liked.

Once she got her own 3D printer, she and Ethan prototyped 20 versions of the connectors before they fixed upon a final design. In just a week, they had created 6 shapes, which made up the key components of 3DuxDesign.

Facing Roadblocks Though this initiative was a creative and educational one, it came with its own set of challenges, with Child Safety being the first hurdle. Additionally, their lack of experience and knowledge and costs of starting a business and scaling added on to the many hurdles while creating 3DuxDesign. One of the main challenges they faced was funding and sourcing an injection mold and balancing those costs with their mission to keep manufacturing as close to their homes as possible while keeping their products affordable and accessible to all. Giving out piano lessons, Ayana saved up and invested around $1500 on her business in the initial days. “Though it’s a lot to learn, it is still necessary if you plan to start a business and get it off the ground.“, says Ayana.

People Behind 3DuxDesign A part of the company since its inception, their mother, Marci Klein, a pediatrician and now a full-time employee of 3DuxDesign, taught them about packaging, patenting, crowdfunding, graphic design, marketing, web development, wholesale, and how to pitch their product. She handles many of the tasks Ayana and Ethan

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Ethan Klein

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don’t have time for, as they are still in school, learning the skills they need to help scale 3DuxDesgin to new heights.

Although Ayana is currently working with the entrepreneurship program at the WashU, the Skandalaris Center, she is still very much active in the company, working on 3Dux projects with children and educators in the St Louis area. She is still involved in all of the decisions and the growth of 3DuxDesign. Meanhwhile, Ethan takes care of the production aspect of the company with a team of high school students who do the packaging. He also takes care of pitching at events and student outreach programs when he is not in school.

A Global Platform Ayana feels that children need a place to share their ideas, their stories, and their culture. With the new Project Based Learning curriculum and platform developed by 3DuxDesign, the children can do just that!

The program requires a lot of thought, learning, and self-expression, which makes the kids proud of their creations in the end. Working with a lot of kids over 2 years, witnessing their smiles and excitement to talk about their project, and the way they hold their heads up high and look at Ayana when they want to share their

Higher Education Digest April 2020

ideas, are proof enough to know how proud they are about themselves. Students with completed projects receive a gold star on the global map and their work is published for the world to see. Along with this, 3DuxDesign’s Global Program and Creative Community Curriculum allow students to share their projects with the growing 3Dux community of change-makers, providing her students a bigger platform to share their ideas.

The programs, challenges, and curriculum at the 3DuxDesign were devised with the realworld problems that need a solution. Intending to promote peace in a divided community, Ayana brings empathy into the design process by asking the student /designer to imagine what it must feel like for the person that the solution is being designed for.

Future of 3DuxDesign With the newest program by 3Dux, Creating Community, students can share their stories, their culture, and their ideas on our web-based

interactive map. This way, students around the world can learn from each other.

In the future, the company aims to connect this global community of students directly so kids in one location can communicate and collaborate with others from across the globe, helping to solve challenges that affect both local communities and those that affect the planet as a whole.

A further dream would be to bring in students at the high school and university levels. For Ayana, using 3DuxDesign materials and lessons to teach younger students has helped her as much, if not more than the kids she works with. Mentorship has been a transforming experience for Ayana and she thinks it would be of great value to young adults on a grander scale.

The digital world has affected the art of communication and human interaction for the current generation. Though the internet connects people all over the world, it is also creating a physical and psychological barrier.

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Higher Education Digest April 2020

Ayana Klein

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To encourage team building and communication, most of the projects are designed for the students to work together, for them to acquire the skillset that they need to navigate through their career and life. She hopes to create an emotional connection and an understanding of others’ feelings by encouraging them to use a human-centered design thinking process.

Ayana says, “Looking beyond our mission to educate, inspire and empower children, we hope to build a global community of change-makers. For that, we need a global presence. So I suppose my greatest ask is to get teachers and students involved from every country and culture, every race and religion and help bring them into the 3Dux community.

Share our story and our mission with students and educators.

If every reader could connect us to just one school interested in participating, just imagine how the next generation of innovators might impact our future?”

The growth of 3DuxDesign is the sole reason why nothing should be used as an excuse for not pursuing your dreams.

Ayana’s story shows that as long as you are passionate about your idea, nothing can stop you from bringing it to life.

Ayana’s vision of using learning to inspire and empower children is commendable. Here is to Ayana, an inspiration to all the innovators out there who are just one step away from their dreams!

The Klein Siblings

Higher Education Digest April 2020

Want to Sell or find Investor for your Business?

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Higher Education Digest April 2020

ACADEMIC VIEW

Next Generation Workforce: How To Acquire Knowledge Through Experience In Changing Economy

By Leo Mrsic, Assistant Professor, Vice Dean for Research and Development, Algebra University College, Zagreb, Croatia, Europe

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n a digital world, students become active in labour market much earlier than ever before. They become aware of their market value sooner than their mentors, and the current global labour market is making borders and physical space almost irrelevant. Education and science are under pressure to focus on applied knowledge, where students can easily compare themselves with global colleagues, making their education achievements challenged and verified faster than ever.

Technology transfer centers are growing in small forms moving from traditional science to the private and public sectors. In this process, it provides an influx of good ideas, high-quality people and a wide range of digital and business competencies, creating a fertile environment for developing business-technology projects that their partners can take when they reach a sufficient level of maturity and continue their development within their systems. Participating in that process, centers are based on a partnership that adds value to several unique educational, market but also policy advantages.

It is expected from the government to apply only proven technologies, while the industry is severely involved in projects that are likely to make profit. The problem with this is the breakthrough–to have proven technology and profitable business models, someone needs to develop, test, and invest in them. That’s why higher education is taking bigger role as “third party” in those processes, someone who would link it all up.

The industry and the public sector can come up with good ideas while high quality educators can create more favourable environment for the development of technology projects. Together with students, they can

Higher Education Digest April 2020

More than ever before, education is enforced by the desire to prove that the academic community can be concrete and competitive when it comes to business

Hailing from Zagreb, Leo Mrsic brings to the table over 20 years of team leadership experience as he has been involved in launching three start-up initiatives. Co-author and contributor on several books, scientific and professional papers, he is also a Member

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of the Croatian Society of Court Experts (HDSVIP), Member of the Board of the Editor in the Global Journal of Technology and Optimization (GJTO), Member of the International Board of Advisors at the International Journal of Energy Optimization and Engineering (IJEOE), and Reviewer with Mathematical Problems in Engineering.

Leo Mrsic

Higher Education Digest April 2020

It is expected from the government to apply only proven technologies, while the industry is severely involved in projects that are likely to make profit

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reach a sufficient level of maturity for selected ideas and continue to improve them in economy. More than ever before, education is enforced by the desire to prove that the academic community can be concrete and competitive when it comes to business. Another motivator is the fact that the industry can provide far more opportunities for the education system but that it needs more quality partners to listen to and are able to understand their needs. Next generation workforce is benefiting from link between the two worlds that today is realized to the satisfaction of all.

We can name this cooperation as “value-adding partnership”, which means that during the projects, industry and policy partner teams will be able to fully control the technology and the projects can be tailored to the needs and development of the company. Many private sector companies and many public sector institutions are not easy to innovate, it is often expensive to independently develop the technological solutions they need to be competitive in their business. Many of them simply lack enough expert human and financial resources to launch their own research and development departments or have no confidence that the academic community can produce solutions within deadlines and according to the criteria of today’s market. Here we higher education can step in as a sandbox that can outsourced easier than to build it

Higher Education Digest April 2020

alone. In addition to today’s remarkable potential for continuous talent-feeds, it is important to point out that today’s labour market looks at each project through the prism of applicability and creation of society or business value (“applied science” or science that can be applied), so there are business-human-technological problems with which today’s society are faced every day.

By following need for round-up service where students of all ages and expertise can acquire, test, share and prove knowledge, that for a partner results in new ideas to improve their business or policy and later to end up as a project on all of them was working together.

Higher education role is to give their partners insight into technology capabilities, present them through prototyping those technologies that can be useful for their business, turn their attention to the skills that it would be good for their teams to gain and enable their partners to be more easily present in the community. Digital age introduces a whole range of topics where high-quality opportunities can be demonstrated.

Having great start-up projects is equity for every society and industry, no surprise Higher Education Digest is great combination of both worlds, creating guidance for next generation workforce seeking for knowledge in world of change.

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Higher Education Digest April 2020

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Higher Education Digest April 2020