Mapúa MCL Hosts First Faculty Mobility Program in Collaboration with UEU, Indonesia

 

By: Ivana Ruth C. Vidal

Mapúa Malayan Colleges Laguna (Mapúa MCL) hosted its first Faculty Mobility Program in collaboration with Universitas Esa Unggul (UEU), a fellow member of the Cintana Education Alliance, last January 29 to February 2, 2024.

 

 

The partnership of Mapúa MCL and the Cintana Education Alliance bridges borders, bringing together universities for international faculty and student exchange, collaborative research, and innovative curriculum development. This enhances students’ learning with diverse perspectives and fuels impactful research, equips graduates with globally relevant skills, and strengthens collaborative ties across the region and the world.

While it marked the first time Mapúa MCL launched such a program, Dr. Jeremy Paul Gecolea has already previously participated in a faculty mobility program facilitated by UEU last October 2023. This collaborative initiative demonstrates Mapúa MCL’s dedicated to enriching the academic experiences of both its faculty and students.

Dr. Jeremy, reflecting on his UEU experience, emphasized how exposure to differing viewpoints fostered his knowledge of varied teaching methods and how economies respond to the shifting business, economic, and marketing dynamics.

Upon arrival, Dr. Mira Kartika Dewi Djunaedi, visiting lecturer from UEU’s Faculty of Business and Economics, was warmly welcomed by the Mapúa MCL community. Dean Maria Rhodora Austria of the E.T. Yuchengco College of Business (ETYCB) set the tone with a heartfelt address, officially kicking off the welcoming program. In response, Dr. Mira conveyed her excitement and eagerness for the transformative collaborations that lie ahead throughout her stay.

 

 

Ms. Pearl Stephanie Ulep, Director for Strategic Partnerships and Global Engagement, provided a comprehensive overview of Mapúa MCL, highlighting its achievements and offerings. Taking the introduction a step further, selected Tourism Management students embarked on a campus tour with Dr. Mira where the various facilities that contribute to Mapúa MCL’s unique learning environment and academic excellence were showcased.

 

 

As part of the week-long faculty mobility program, Dr. Mira joined forces with Dr. Jeremy Paul  Gecolea, Mr. Rocky Angelo Gabatin, and Prof. James Ronald Mesina. Together, the professors led a series of engaging Classroom Sessions and Global Signature Courses that facilitated a vibrant exchange of academic ideas and knowledge sharing amongst participants.

 

 

Dr. Mira, along with the collaborating professors, spearheaded the collaborative discussions on Economics and Sustainability Strategy, encouraging dialogue between students and the visiting lecturer. This immersive experience offered students valuable insights into Indonesia’s practices in these crucial areas, sparking critical thinking and broadening their understanding.

 

 

Stepping beyond the classroom, Mapúa MCL’s Office for External Relations and Global Linkages (OERGL) curated a rich cultural immersion experience for Dr. Mira. Cultural and historical tours across Laguna and Manila offered firsthand encounters with the Philippines’ vibrant heritage, deepening understanding and appreciation for the country’s unique culture and history.

 

 

The first faculty mobility program hosted by Mapúa MCL in collaboration with UEU proved to be a resounding success, exceeding expectations, and setting a strong precedent for future collaborations. Dr. Mira Kartika Dewi Djunaedi’s insightful experience encompassed academic exchange, cultural immersion, and developed meaningful connections between the faculty and students from both institutions.

Following the success of the faculty mobility program between the two institutions, Mapúa MCL and UEU are poised for a flourishing partnership with exciting prospects for collaboration. Joint ventures on research, service-learning, and student and faculty mobility are actively being explored. This paves the way for deeper engagement within the Cintana Alliance and beyond, bringing together shared expertise and preparing students to excel in a globalized world.

Mapúa MCL iConnect: Building Employable Graduates through Collaborative Partnerships

 

By: Ivana Ruth Vidal

On January 5, 2024, the Office for Strategic Partnerships and Global Engagement (OSPGE) hit the refresh button on its Marketplace of Opportunities: iConnect specifically geared towards the current and upcoming batch of practicum students. This is a continued commitment of Mapúa Malayan Colleges Laguna (Mapúa MCL) in bridging the gap between academia and industry, ensuring that its students are equipped with skills and experience employers seek.

iConnect, aptly named for its focus on “industry connect,” serves as a crucial platform connecting students with established industry partners. The program aims to provide practical, real-world learning opportunities that complement classroom education. More importantly, it equips students with the necessary skills and experience to seamlessly transition into the workforce upon graduation.

 

 

Monde Nissin Corporation, Ayala Property Management Corporation, Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation, Gardenia Bakeries Philippines, and Sol Psychological Services were the participating industry partners during the activity. Each representative introduced their companies to the students, discussed their internship application process, and shared the different opportunities they offer once the students graduate.

Students were given the chance to ask their questions directly to the industry partners. From seeking clarification on specific internship roles to expressing their aspirations for future careers. The event fostered a sense of excitement and anticipation among the students, eager to apply their academic learnings in a real-world setting and gain valuable professional experience that would give them a head start in their careers.

However, the impact of iConnect extends beyond the individual student benefits. By fostering strong partnerships between Mapúa MCL and industry leaders, the program strengthens the university’s curriculum, ensuring it remains relevant and aligned with the current needs of the industry. This collaborative approach not only enhances graduate employability but also contributes to the overall development of the country’s workforce, preparing future professionals with skills and experience needed to drive innovation and success in various industries.

Career Readiness Toolkit: How to Make a Killer Resume & How to Ace Your Interview

 

By: Almarie Taran

On January 5th, 2024, the Office for Strategic Partnerships and Global Engagement (OSPGE) hosted the third session of their Career Readiness Toolkit, empowering students to launch their dream careers. Held at Mapúa MCL’s FLUX Rooms, the seminar attracted over 140 participants from diverse disciplines like healthcare, computer science, business, and maritime studies.

 

 

This session’s expert was Mr. Rafael Inigo Dela Cruz, a Marketing Senior Manager and Candidate Marketing Lead from JobStreet. He shared his insights on crafting a stellar resume that grabs attention. Emphasizing both traditional and modern formats, Mr. Dela Cruz highlighted the importance of:

• Visual appeal: A balanced layout with harmonious fonts and generous white space.
• Professional headshot: Invest in a clear, professional image that makes a good first impression.
• Targeted content: Showcase achievements, skills, and experiences relevant to the desired role.
• Strategic design: Consider incorporating icons, graphs, or decorations in certain sections for impact.

 

The Pathways to Employability program, through initiatives like the Career Readiness Toolkit, emphasizes its commitment to supporting students’ career paths. By providing workshops, resources, and placement assistance, the OSPGE equips its students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to achieve their career goals.

Mapúa MCL Unlocks Student Mobility Programs through E-TALKS with UEU, Indonesia Exchange Students

 

By: Zoe Grace Buergo

The Office for External Relations and Global Linkages (OERGL) recently conducted Exchange-Talks, also known as E-Talks: Unlock your Global Potential: Take on the World through Student Mobility, held on February 15, 2024, at Mapúa Malayan Colleges Laguna (Mapúa MCL) . The event aimed to inspire students to explore the world through student mobility program opportunities aligned with Mapúa MCL’s vision to build professionals equipped for the global stage.

 

 

The E-Talks event served as a platform to inspire and encourage students to participate in international student mobility programs. Furthermore, the event featured student speakers from the E.T. Yuchengco College of Business (ETYCB) students who recently participated in an international mobility program in 2023. The ETYCB students, namely: Antoni Ville R. Ricafort, Irish Jose G. Estoesta, Mark Laurens R. Corales, Princess Sarah A. Casas, and Khaira Marie B. Dulongbinti shared their experiences, expectations, and the valuable lessons they gained from participating in international mobility program. On another note, Sarasvati Devi and Ajriel Hakim, the exchange students from Universitas Esa Unggul, Indonesia stressed that participating in a student mobility program serves to be enriching and fulfilling to enhance a student’s English communication skills to connect with different nationalities.

It is firmly attested by the student speakers from UEU and Mapúa MCL that by taking part in this program, students can broaden their knowledge, develop intercultural skills, and prepare themselves to take on the world as professionals.

During the E-Talks, one of the key highlights was the introduction of the Arizona State University (ASU) Summer Immersion Program 2024 presented by the Director for Strategic Partnerships and Global Engagement, Pearl Stephanie DL. Ulep. Ms. Ulep highlighted the ASU Summer Immersion program that provides an exciting opportunity for all courses of students interested in applying for an international mobility program at Arizona State University. By participating in such a good program, students can broaden their horizons, gain valuable cultural experiences, and enhance their global perspective.

 

 

The Assistant-Vice President for External Relations, Prof. James Ronald Mesina, expressed that Mapúa Malayan Colleges Laguna remains true to its commitment to expanding linkages and providing avenues for students to explore the world and expand their horizons through student mobility opportunities from various internationally renowned universities. During the open forum, Prof. Mesina enumerated several opportunities for students to “level up” their learning experience through global engagement for research, internship and cross-cultural immersion.

With the success of E-Talks, Mapúa MCL has demonstrated its commitment to helping students develop a global perspective and their global potential through international experiences.

Interested students to take on the world through applying in a student mobility program are encouraged to reach out to the Office for External Relations and Global Linkages at [email protected].

 

 

 

Empowering Global Perspectives: Mapúa MCL’s Successful Global Signature Course with UEU, Indonesia

 

By: Zoe Grace Buergo

The Office for External Relations and Global Linkages (OERGL) in collaboration with E.T. Yuchengco College of Business (ETYCB) organized a highly informative and engaging Global Signature Course on February 1 and 2, 2024. Spearheaded by the esteemed presence of Dr. Mira Kartika Dewi Djunaedi, an International Guest Lecturer from Universitas Esa Unggul (UEU), Indonesia.

The Global Signature Course is a relevant celebration of knowledge and global connectivity which serves as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue to spark valuable learning experience for all participants from Mapúa Malayan Colleges Laguna (Mapúa MCL) and joined in a hybrid modality by the UEU students.

 

 

On February 1, Dr. Mira delivered a captivating talk on the topic of Sustainability Strategy. Collaborating with Dr. Mira on the GSC is Professor James Ronald Mesina, Assistant Vice-President for OERGL, and a part-time Instructor at ETYCB handling MGT-104: Good Governance and Social Responsibility course. The session explored the significance of integrating sustainable practices in a range of industries, particularly social responsibility, and good governance. The students were given the chance to learn about strategies and approaches that can lead to a more sustainable future.

BS Business Administration major in Marketing Management students Sheane Nicole S. Matias and Jaeron Carl S. Panzo shared key takeaways on the GSC as student reactors. The insights focused on common practices on sustainability being done by firms in the Philippines built on the strategies shared by Dr. Mira.

 

 

Dr. Mira carried on the GSC momentum on February 2 by collaborating with Dr. Jeremy Paul Gecolea from ETYCB to discuss Correlation Analysis via the lens of business. The session delves into the complexities involved in examining correlations between various variables. Through this topic, the students gained a deeper grasp of statistical analysis and how it is used in a variety of fields.

 

 

The Global Signature Course attracted a diverse group of students from Mapúa MCL and UEU students. The presence of Dr. Mira, with her expertise and international perspective, added immense value to the course. With excitement, the participants entered the talks, enthusiastically wanting to learn new things, actively pursuing information, and broadening their perspectives.

The GSC served as a platform for students to further develop their understanding of global issues and develop critical thinking skills. It provided the students with an opportunity to interact with renowned experts in their respective fields, fostering a deeper appreciation for international collaboration and information sharing.

Mapúa MCL takes pride in organizing such impactful events that contribute to the holistic development of its students. With its emphasis on correlation analysis and sustainability, the Global Signature Course has undoubtedly broadened the students’ viewpoints and equipped them with valuable insights for their academic and professional endeavors.

As the Global Signature Course concluded, the participants were able to renew their sense of enthusiasm and commitment to applying the knowledge gained in the future. Mapúa MCL is steadfast in its commitment to organizing more enriching courses in the future, furthering its mission to provide a top-notch education and global exposure to the students.

Mapúa MCL’s Global Signature Course Explores the Economics Behind Sustainable Development

 

By: Zoe Grace Buergo

Mapúa Malayan Colleges Laguna (Mapúa MCL) began the new year with a highly successful Global Signature Course on January 11, 2024, titled “Who Pays for Sustainable Development: Economical Understanding and Analysis of Different Cases.” The event proved to be an engaging and insightful platform for discussing the economic aspects of sustainable development, which featured esteemed panel speakers from Almaty Management University (ALMA University), Kazakhstan, and two reactors from E.T. Yuchengco College of Business (ETYCB).

 

 

The event commenced with an opening address by Prof. Maria Rhodora Austria, the Dean of ETYCB. Prof. Austria emphasized the importance of economic implications of the sustainable development, which set the stage for the thought-provoking discussions that followed.

The panel speakers from ALMA University, Kazakhstan, brought a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the event. Prof. Alisher Sadykov, distinguished sustainability advocate, researcher, and lecturer at ALMA University, gave a compelling talk about the opportunities and problems that come with sustainable development in their nation and other parts of Asia. Prof. Sadykov provided light on the global sustainable investing assets and the different approaches used by various nations and sectors of the economy to fund sustainable projects.

 

 

Prof. Dmitriy Ogay, a renowned researcher and lecturer at ALMA University since 2005, joined Prof. Sadykov in discussing the research findings on the economic impact of sustainable development policies. Prof. Ogay offered insightful advice on how to practically implement sustainable practices in a developing economy.

Following the panel presentations, two reactors from Mapúa MCL, Prof. Jeremy Paul E. Gecolea, Ph.D., and Prof. Rocky Angelo M. Gabatin, provided their perspectives on the topics discussed. Both panel reactors underlined the efforts made by the Philippine government to fulfill the Sustainable Development Goals and the significance of community involvement and grassroots movements in bringing about long-lasting change.

The occasion created a dialogue-based atmosphere that enabled ETYCB students to actively engage in the conversations. Through the Q&A session, students were able to ask questions and learn more about the economic side of sustainable development.

 

 

The successful Global Signature Course served as a platform for knowledge sharing and critical analysis of sustainable development from an economic standpoint. Interesting insights into the opportunities, risks, and duties related to funding sustainable projects were provided by the thought-provoking talks and presentations.

Mapúa MCL remains committed to providing a quality education and environment that equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address pressing global issues. The Global Signature Course serves as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue and inspires future leaders to actively contribute to society’s solutions for a more sustainable world.

Mapúa MCL Students Bag 3 Awards in International Business Sustainability Initiative Competition

 

By: Zoe Grace Buergo

 

 

Mapúa Malayan Colleges Laguna (Mapúa  MCL) have once again showcased the E.T. Yuchengco College of Business (ETYCB) students’ exceptional skills and talents in the International Business Sustainability Initiative (IBSI) 2023 with the theme “Digital Transformation for Sustainable Impact: Achieving SDGs in the Digital Age.” The prestigious competition took place virtually on December 21, 2023, hosted by the Faculty of Business and Economics of Universitas Islam Indonesia.

For an impressive three consecutive years, Mapúa MCL students have consistently emerged as top finalists in this competition, demonstrating their expertise and dedication in various fields. In the Business Plan Competition, Group 1’s Intelli-Build Tech, with its group members, Sheane Nicole S. Matias, Ma. Bernice S. Bernales, Judeil S. Magnanao, Andrei A. Ybañez, and Irish Jose G. Estoesta secured the 4th runner-up position, while Group 2’s Musaea Briquettes, with their teams Wendren B. Villarin, Stephanie Claire M. Negrillo, Norika S. Ciocon, Elexali S. Olayvar, and Vanya Christabelle O. Donceras, achieved the 3rd runner-up position. These achievements highlighted the innovative ideas and entrepreneurial spirit of Mapúa MCL students.

Furthermore, in the Essay Competition, Mapúa MCL students, namely Chelsea Andrea P. Pacifico, Ken Marious D. Calvelo, Lance Bersamina, and Lebron James T. Espino, proved their creativity. The essay titled “Unleashing Potential: How Artificial Intelligence Can Equip Food Service MSMEs with Sustainable Business Practices to Thrive in a Technology-Driven Landscape” earned the 2nd Runner-Up position. This essay showcases the deep understanding of artificial intelligence and sustainable business practices.

 

 

The ETYCB students’ experience in the competition enhanced problem-solving skills, teamwork, and ability to think not just for the company but about the company’s contribution to society by implementing plans aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. With the success of the students in the IBSI 2023, they imprinted a life realization to always strive for whatever opportunity comes in and to step out of their comfort zone. The students highlighted that behind the success are the good mentors of Mapúa MCL who have provided them support since the beginning of the competition journey, which made the vision clearer: Prof. Juliezher M. Colaljo and Prof. Donn Enrique L. Moreno.

The Mapúa MCL students’ continuous success in the IBSI competition was a testament to the institution’s dedication to offering excellent education while nurturing students’ abilities to ensure they would be prepared for the global stage. The achievements brought pride to the students and highlighted Mapúa MCL as a leading institution, not just in engineering but in business and economics.

The achievements demonstrated commitment and hard work and serve as an example to the Mapúa MCL community. In a statement, Prof. James Ronald O. Mesina, Assistant Vice-President for External Relations and Global Linkages mentioned that participation to competitions with global engagement is important for the institution’s advocacy for outcomes-based education. Prof. Mesina emphasized that as students get recognized in these competitions for their excellent performance, it serves as a validation of the knowledge, skills and attitudes that the students demonstrate which are part and parcel of the student outcomes where they are prepared for in their respective programs.

Mapúa MCL Students Excel in the ASEAN Virtual Student Opinion Competition 2023

 

By: Zoe Grace Buergo

On November 8, 2023, students of Mapúa Malayan Colleges Laguna (Mapúa MCL) were awarded in the ASEAN Virtual Student Opinion Competition (AVISOC) 2023’s Poster Making Category. The event, which aimed to foster cultural exchange and promote student engagement, provided a platform for students to express opinions through visual art and engage in meaningful dialogue.

 

 

AVISOC 2023 is organized by the Universitas Brawijaya (Indonesia); School of Government at Universiti Utara Malaysia (Malaysia) School of Government; Burapha University (Thailand)’s Faculty of Law and Political Science; Tarlac Agricultural University (Philippines); and the SEAMEO Center for Lifelong Learning (Vietnam).

Among the outstanding participants were four Mapúa MCL students from Mapua Institute of Technology at Laguna (MITL), the College of Arts and Science (CAS), and E.T. Yuchengco College of Business (ETYCB) stood out and received well-deserved recognition for a remarkable poster design showcasing its talent and artistic prowess. Carl Lois T. Evangelista was awarded as a Gold Awardee. Gerri Leigh J. Hiwatig and Ria Mariell T. Tomas both secured Bronze awards, while LJ Love Z. Lativo achieved a Silver award.

 

 

The winning posters demonstrated a deep understanding of the competition’s theme and effectively conveyed the students’ opinions through captivating visuals.

The Mapúa MCL community takes immense pride in the achievements of these talented Mapúans. The students’ success not only highlights the individual skills but also reflects and further solidifies the institution’s commitment to nurturing and empowering creative minds to be equipped for the global stage.

Assistant Vice President for External Relations and Global Linkages Prof. James Ronald O. Mesina commended the students for bagging the recognition from a global competition participated in by students from different universities. Prof. Mesina highlighted that the invitation came from the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO) which Mapúa MCL is a part of. A lot of schools from several ASEAN countries joined in the contest, that is why the achievements of the students are significant as we continue to set Mapua MCL’s footprint on the global stage.

 

Mapúa MCL Embraces Global Perspectives with Global Signature Courses on Cross-Cultural Exploration and Global Marketing

 

 

Relaunching the Global Signature course with great success, Mapúa Malayan Colleges Laguna (Mapúa MCL) has brought together a group of international speakers and students for a life-changing educational experience on November 7, 10, 14, and 15–17, 2023. The event is a relevant celebration of knowledge and global connectivity.

The course was designed to meet the opportunities and problems of the twenty-first century, aligning with Mapúa MCL’s advocacy for Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), guaranteeing that students would leave with the knowledge and abilities needed to succeed in a globalized society through panel discussions.

The esteemed panel of renowned speakers from Mapúa MCL, Galala University Egypt, Universitas Esa Unggul (UEU), Indonesia, and Universidad Autonoma De Guadalajara Mexico who graced the occasion with their presence was the event’s high point. These experts, from all over the world, contributed much knowledge and experience to the discussion. The speakers also provided distinctive viewpoints on various subjects, including student-faculty interaction in the contemporary world, global challenges to climate change and health, and internet marketing trends.

 

 

One of the prominent presenters was Dr. Yasser Mahgoub, a well-known authority in the field of architecture at Galala University in Egypt, who offered insightful perspectives on the significance of cross-cultural exploration of architectural marvels. Dr. Mahgoub also reiterated that one of the important topics during the discussion was to teach the students the vital skills in academia about proper presentation and communication skills, highlighting that students are not just learners but explorers of knowledge.

Another distinguished speaker, Prof. Donn Enrique Moreno, fascinated the audience with his insights as they delved into the dynamic world of digital strategies and marketing trends. Prof. Donn highlighted in the discussion how digital strategies play a vital role in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, which equipped the students with practical insights and a global mindset, fostering innovation.

The Global Signature course at Mapúa MCL has ushered in a new era of education that fosters critical thinking, values diversity, and equips students globally to deal with the challenges of an increasingly linked world. The institution will continue its commitment to providing a platform to widen the global perspective and prepare the Mapúans on the global stage to make significant contributions to society.

 

SDG Global Festival of Action: Becoming Responsible Mapúans for Sustainability and Development

 

By: Zoe Grace Buergo

 

 

Mapúa Malayan Colleges Laguna (Mapúa MCL) is steadfast in its mission to provide a learning environment that creates globally competitive professionals. The ASEAN Month celebration with the theme Global Festival of Action, held on August 31, 2023, intended to develop a community with comprehensive knowledge of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and contribute to achieving it as the Mapúa MCL envisions.

The event welcomed the students with three time-worthy plenary discussions centered on SDGs 9, 11, and 16 and extensive SDG-related displays and projects at the E.T. Yuchengco Lobby.

Mapúa Insititute of Technology at Laguna (MITL) Faculty Member, Ar. Alvin P. Tejada invited everyone to a discovery of knowledge about SDG #11: LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) cities and communities. During the plenary session, Ar. Tejada highlighted the target goals of SDG #11 to attain a sustainable community by making human settlements and cities in every community safe, inclusive, sustainable, and storm-resistant. He emphasized that the impact of disasters on communities, infrastructure, and services resulted in high death rates. In addition, for inclusive and sustainable urbanization, it is not only the government’s responsibility but also to activate community involvement by making small changes in our daily lives by managing food waste, walking in dedicated spaces for pedestrians, and more.

 

 

The Senior Vice President for Administration and Legal, Atty. Maria Eloisa R. Gan followed the plenary session about SDG #16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, whose message explicitly addressed the subject of freedom of speech and expression through participatory communication. The session with Atty. Gan highlighted the phrases “freedom” and “discipline” and discussed how students have a right to share and express themselves freely in the community while also fostering accountability. The student’s right to freedom of speech and expression must be safeguarded, but we must also be reminded that we are responsible for the consequences of what we do.

 

 

As a result of easy access to technology in the modern day, people are now highly technologically literate, especially in using social media. SDG #9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure strived to develop resilient infrastructure, advance sustainable industrialization, and support innovation. Prof. Dennis A. Martillano, a College of Computer and Information Science (CCIS) faculty member, launched the conversation concerning this goal. Aligned with SDG #9, the session made the participants analyze the Philippines’ preparedness and standing in the innovation. He stressed that it is time for the Philippines to consider promoting innovation and making infrastructures ready to implement the Internet of Things (IoT) by acknowledging the talents of the Filipinos.

 

 

The SDG Global Festival of Action helped students make decisions that will positively impact their communities, freedom, and innovative minds, in line with Mapúa MCL’s mission to create professionals who contribute to the industry and society’s concerns and solutions by the expert application of knowledge.