Though COVID 19 pandemic completely disrupted the way in which universities have been traditionally operating, it has provided more opportunities for higher education institutions to increase interconnectedness across borders.
As Capiz State University continues to pursue its commitment towards internationalization by building new partnerships with other international higher education institutions around the globe, it has organized a meet and greet with Universitas Ahmad Dahlan (UAD) from Indonesia on June 8, 2021 after responding to the invitation of the latter to strengthen partnership through rigorous academic activities with the English Department, doing research collaboration, and extending community service.
The virtual meeting was attended by the key officials of CAPSU namely: Dr. Susan O. Dangan, VP for Academic Affairs; Dr. Mary Ann B. Martelino, VP for External Affairs and Linkages; Dr. Efren L. Linan, VP for Research, Development and Extension Services; and representatives from various offices of the university. The UAD was also represented by Dr. Rusydi Umar, Vice Rector of Academic Affairs; Dr. Anton Yudhana, Head of Institute of Research and Community Service; Dr. Nizam Ahsani, Dean of the Faculty of Literature, Culture, and Communication; Dr. Trikinasih Handayani, Dean of the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education; Dr. Dwi Santoso, Head of Ahmad Dahlan Global Engagement; Ida Puspita, M.A.Res., Head of International Partnership Division; Maftukhin M. Hum., Head of English Literature Department; Hafiz Kurniawan, M.A., Secretary of English Literature Department; Dr. Ani Susanti, Head of the English Education Department; and Rahmi Munfangati, M.PD., Secretary of English Education Department.
The two institutions agreed to conduct a research colloquium to provide opportunities for faculty to gain experience and learn about research in the international arena; and the faculty and student exchange that is expected to take place in September.
Clearly, CAPSU and UAD understand their crucial role in training teachers, creating pedagogical content, and leading educational research that could greatly impact in addressing the challenges brought by the COVID- 19.
