Embodying the values of competence, integrity, and service, the University of Baguio – School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts (UB-STELA) has partnered with Khon Kaen University – College of Local Administration (KKU-COLA) for academic collaboration and cultural exchange. A group of ten STELA students—four from the Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, five from the Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education Major in English, and one from the Bachelor of Arts in English Language—arrived at KKU, accompanied by UB-STELA faculty members Dr. Michelle Ranges, Program Chair of the UB BAEL program, and Ms. Beverly Laltoog, UB-STELA faculty member. Over the course of their two-month stay, the students will immerse themselves in Thai culture and study Thailand’s local government system. Additionally, the BA English students will lead an English Camp Program for Thai students.
The delegation was welcomed upon arrival at Khon Kaen International Airport on January 9 by Dr. Charles Ruangthamsing, Dr. Xenia Garnace, Mr. Amnat Okratok, and KKU COLA students. The COLA students assisted the STELA group with acquiring SIM cards and provided an orientation on campus navigation and shuttle bus routes. Furthermore, a buddy system was established, with two COLA students paired with each STELA student to help facilitate a smoother transition into campus life.
Welcome Program and Campus Tour
To formally welcome the ten UB STELA exchange students, along with UB STELA Dean Dr. Aida Dapiawen, UB Linkages Staff Angelica Tamayo, and Professors Dr. Michelle Ranges and Ms. Beverly Laltoog, Dr. Xenia R. Emperador-Garnace led a morning program on January 10 from 9:30 to 11:30. During the program, each student had the opportunity to introduce themselves and share their expectations for the exchange.
The program began with a heartfelt message from Assoc. Prof. Dr. Peerasit Kanmuansilpa, the Founding Dean and Senior Advisor of KKU COLA, who expressed his gratitude for the participants and thanked the KKU student volunteers who would be assisting the UB students. Dr. Dapiawen, Dr. Ranges, and Ms. Laltoog also delivered messages, emphasizing the importance of the program and the mutual benefits it brings to both parties.
Assoc. Prof. Peerasit also shared his fondness for the Filipino song “Anak” by Freddie Aguilar. After playing it, he reflected on its profound meaning for Thai students and encouraged the UB students to teach the song to their KKU buddies and perform it together before the end of their cultural exchange.
The event concluded with both universities exchanging tokens of appreciation, followed by a celebratory group photo. A delicious lunch was served, giving the Filipino students an opportunity to experience a variety of Thai cuisine.
Courtesy Call and Orientation
On January 13, the UB students attended an orientation with the Dean of KKU’s COLA, Asst. Prof. Dr. Sirisak Laochankham. The session highlighted the experiences of the students and the buddy system, which proved mutually beneficial. Each UB student was paired with a KKU student who would guide them through life in Thailand and navigate the KKU campus. In turn, the KKU students benefited from learning about Filipino culture and had the opportunity to practice English through conversations with the UB students.
The UB students shared their expectations for the exchange program, which included participating in a Thailand culture and language course, organizing English programs centered around public affairs that KKU students could join, and presenting a performance showcasing Philippine culture.
Through their shared experiences and expectations, both universities are expected to collaborate and learn from each other. This collaborative relationship between UB and KKU is further strengthened by the efforts of these students.
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Article written by UB English Interns; edited by Dr. Xenia R. Emperador-Garnace
Photos by COLA KKU
