DMMMSU concluded its Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) program with Universitas Kristen Indonesia (UKI) in Indonesia and Udon Thani Rajabhat University (UDRU) in Thailand.
The program, titled Bridging Cultures, Empowering Futures: A COIL-led Program Series on Gender and Sustainable Development in the ASEAN Region,” took place once a week throughout March 2025 via hybrid modality and at the DMMMSU Innovation Laboratory (for onsite participants). Designed to foster cross-cultural learning and collaboration, the initiative brought together educators, researchers, and gender advocates to discuss gender issues and their integration into sustainable development efforts across the ASEAN Region.
Coinciding with International Women’s Month, the COIL program highlighted the shared commitment of the three universities to gender equality, inclusivity, and educational innovation.
The event kicked off on March 5 with an Opening Message from UDRU President Assist. Prof. Dr. Khanisara Thanyasunthornsakun. It was followed by Gender and Development in Asean talks by Dr. Aurda Jovani (UKI), and Prof. Ronald B. Bustos (DMMMSU).
Week 2 focused on the integration of the SDGs and regional collaboration. Dr. Srisna J. Lahay (UKI) and Dr. Arnie G. Dizon (DMMMSU) presented their respective universities’ initiatives in implementing the SDGs, highlighting key strategies and collaborative efforts within the region.
The program saw the active participation of 30 faculty members and Gender and Development (GAD) officials from DMMMSU, alongside educators from UKI and UDRU. Participants exchanged perspectives on gender disparities in higher education, cultural influences on gender norms, and the role of education in promoting inclusivity. One of the key highlights of the program was the final session held on March 27 (Week Four), where mixed-nationality teams presented their collaborative projects—with a special lecture from Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ied Veda Sitepu, Vice-Rector for Student Affairs and Cooperation (UKI).
These projects ranged from digital awareness campaigns to interactive learning modules aimed at addressing gender gaps in education. The best project was recognized during the closing ceremony, underscoring the program’s emphasis on practical, real-world applications of the discussions.
Reflecting on the program’s success, Dr. Jesus Rafael B. Jarata, Director for International Affairs at DMMMSU, emphasized the significance of international partnerships in advancing gender-responsive education. He noted that the COIL initiative not only strengthened institutional ties between DMMMSU, UKI, and UDRU but also provided a platform for educators to co-create meaningful learning experiences. (By Jesus Rafael B. Jarata)
