The Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST), through the College of Management and Business Technology (CMBT) and the Office of International Affairs, concluded its Inbound Visiting Professor, Faculty, and Student Exchange, Research, and Extension Collaboration Program with Universitas Muria Kudus (UMK), Indonesia, on November 3, 2026, at Rico Fajardo Hall, Sumacab Campus.

Throughout the engagement, visiting faculty members and students participated in classroom observations, lectures, and academic discussions covering various disciplines, including business, economics, entrepreneurship, financial management, human resource management, and research.

Faculty members from both institutions also explored opportunities for research and extension collaboration, identifying potential areas for academic partnerships and future joint initiatives.

Beyond academic engagements, the visiting delegates participated in Filipino language and culture classes, Laro ng Lahi, Filipino song coaching, and visits to local destinations, allowing them to experience Filipino traditions, culture, and community life.

The program also included visits to NEUST facilities, particularly the Virtual Reality Laboratory, and activities at the Gabaldon Campus, where the delegates explored agricultural and tourism destinations, engaged with local communities, and participated in environmental initiatives, including tree planting.

During the closing program, NEUST President Dr. Rhodora Jugo highlighted the friendships and meaningful connections established throughout the exchange. She welcomed the delegates to consider NEUST their second home, emphasizing that they would always be welcome to return to the university.

“The most important thing that you will bring home is the friendship you have established with Filipinos, and I hope you were able to feel that NEUST becomes your second home. Whenever you wish to come back, you are always welcome in the university. Always remember that you have a home in the Philippines at NEUST,” Dr. Jugo said.

The visiting students also shared their experiences and expressed their appreciation for the relationships they established during their stay.

UMK student Nadila Dzulhi Anantasya reflected on the memories and friendships she would bring home, stating, “I may be leaving the Philippines with my luggage, but I’m definitely taking home so many beautiful memories and friendships.”

Fellow UMK student Rahma Dita Pratiwi also expressed her gratitude for the welcome she received, saying, “Thank you for making a place that felt unfamiliar feel like a second home. I came here as a student from Indonesia, but I will go back with so many memories, stories, and friends from the Philippines.”

Also present during the closing program were Vice President for Academic Affairs Engr. Feliciana Jacoba, Director of the Office of International Affairs, Atty. Eric Claudio, PhD, and Department of Entrepreneurship Head Dr. Reynante Blas, who shared their messages and well wishes for the visiting delegates, together with faculty members, staff, and students.

The completion of the program reinforces the continuing academic relationship between NEUST and UMK, with the exchange providing opportunities for further cooperation in education, research, and extension, as well as continued engagement between their academic communities.

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