Twelve students from the College of Management and Business Technology (CMBT) of the Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST) are set to embark on an international exchange program in Indonesia. The delegation includes five (5) Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) students, three (3) Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship (BSEntrep) students, two (2) Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM) students, and two (2) Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management (BSTM) students.
A Pre-Departure Orientation and Send-Off Program was held on January 15, 2025, at the Rico Fajardo Hall, Sumacab Campus, to formally prepare the students for their journey. During the event, NEUST President Dr. Rhodora R. Jugo emphasized the universityโs vision of becoming a globally recognized institution. She urged the students to embody NEUSTโs core values, take pride in representing the Philippines, and aim for excellence and unity throughout their endeavors. NEUST Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Feliciana P. Jacoba, highlighted the significance of international collaborations in broadening studentsโ academic and professional perspectives.
In his address, Atty. Eric G. Claudio, Director of the International Affairs Office, provided insights on the cultural adjustments necessary for thriving in a global environment. Dr. Sarah C. Alvarez, Dean of CMBT, underscored the significance of the exchange program in enriching the studentโs academic and professional development. She also stated that this initiative aligns with the universityโs mandate to be globally competitive, ensuring that NEUST gains recognition not only locally and nationally but also on an international scale.
Meanwhile, Ms. Vivien Amor Viloria, a CMBT faculty member, shared practical strategies to help students create meaningful and memorable experiences during their stay.
The program also included an open forum, allowing students and parents to raise questions and express concerns about the upcoming exchange.
The BSBA students are scheduled to depart on January 18, 2025, for Universitas Muhammadiyah Kendari, while the BSHM students will leave on February 8, 2025, for Universitas Brawijaya. The participants will engage in cultural exchange, research projects, and extension collaborations with their host universities. Accompanying them are NEUST officials and faculty members, including Atty. Claudio, Dr. Alvarez, Dr. Alma Pia G. Reyes, Dr. Ma. Cecilia P. Reyes, Mr. Mark Alvin H. Abad, Dr. Reynante Blas, and Dr. Renato Virola.
This initiative strengthens NEUSTโs international partnerships and provides students with opportunities to showcase Philippine culture on the global stage. Through programs like these, NEUST continues to advance its commitment to global engagement and holistic student development.
J. De Guzman
J. De Guzman