Lemuel M. Sayao, PhD
Ningbo, China – Five administrators from Cor Jesu College, Digos City, Davao del Sur participated in the Training Course on Quality Improvement for Young Science and Technology Teachers from ASEAN Countries, held from December 16 to 21, 2024, at Ningbo Polytechnic in Zhejiang Province, China.
The delegation from Cor Jesu College included Mr. Jun Rey D. Dequiña, MA, Principal of the Basic Education Department; Mr. John Paul Reponte, SHS Coordinator; Mr. Charles Dango, Science Coordinator; Mdm. Cyril Marie S. Ramos, CPA, MBA, MPA, Dean of the College of Accountancy, Business and Entrepreneurship; and Dr. Lemuel M. Sayao, Director of Research and Publication.
During the opening ceremony, Professor Yang Linsheng, Vice President of Ningbo Polytechnic, emphasized the pivotal role of educators in shaping learners’ futures and the necessity of enhancing their teaching capabilities through comprehensive training.
The five-day program combined classroom lectures, site visits, and hands-on activities, providing participants with an immersive experience in modern teaching methodologies and China’s advancements in science and technology. Key topics covered included project-based teaching, exploratory learning, entrepreneurship in technological innovation, and the Chinese path to modernization. Participants also visited notable institutions such as the Ningbo Research Innovation Institute, which showcased cutting-edge research and development, and the Zhou Yao Insect Museum, which highlighted biodiversity education. They explored the Ningbo Physis Technology Company, gaining insights into sophisticated motor product manufacturing, and the Ningbo Science Exploration Center, where they engaged in 3D exploration, Chinese lantern-making, and plant dye art.
Dr. Kirt Diaz, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Cor Jesu College, highlighted the significance of the training, stating, “Cor Jesu College’s participation in this international training program is significant in advancing science and technology. We send our faculty to these seminars to enhance their expertise by learning from China’s experiences in these fields. Our goal is to bring back valuable insights, skills, and knowledge for implementation at Cor Jesu College.
The knowledge and skills gained by our administrators will primarily benefit the students, as we aim to adopt and apply effective practices from China, particularly in fostering innovation. Additionally, faculty members will also benefit, as those who attended the training will share their acquired expertise with their colleagues, ensuring that the entire academic community gains from this learning experience.”
During the closing ceremony, Dean Ramos, representing the delegates expressed her gratitude, saying, “This training has provided a deeper understanding of the vital role science and technology play in driving innovation and development. Learning about project-based teaching, hands-on experiments, and practical learning strategies has been inspiring, reinforcing the importance of equipping students with the ability to propose solutions to real-world challenges. The site visits were equally enlightening, offering concrete examples of how education and industry work together to achieve modernization and progress.
Beyond the knowledge gained, the program also fostered meaningful international connections. Engaging with participants from different countries highlighted the value of cross-cultural collaboration and the exchange of ideas. The well-organized sessions, logistics, and experiences made this training both enriching and memorable. Deep gratitude goes to the People’s Republic of China for its commitment to global development and for sharing valuable resources and expertise. As we return home, we are inspired to apply what we have learned and strengthen partnerships that contribute to a better future for all.”
The administrators not only engaged in intellectual and cultural exchange but also experienced Ningbo’s chilly winter, with temperatures ranging from -2 to 11 degrees Celsius, adding a memorable seasonal touch to their journey. The training course strengthened the foundation for collaborative efforts in education among ASEAN countries and underscored the importance of fostering innovative teaching practices in science and technology.
Cor Jesu College has been actively boosting its internationalization efforts. In October, two top management officials attended the Training Program on Higher Education Management organized by Zhejiang Normal University in Jinhua, China.
