Southern Leyte State University Sends Off SEAMEO Pre-Service Teachers to Indonesia

Following the recent success of the SEAMEO Pre-Service Teachers from Universitas Islam Darul 'Ulum (UNISDA) in Lamongan, Indonesia, who completed their monthlong international teaching practicum at Southern Leyte State University – Tomas Oppus Campus, it is now SLSU’s turn to send off its own SEAMEO Pre-Service Teachers to Indonesia.

The seven pre-service teachers from the Tomas Oppus Campus, namely Crystal T. Labunog (Bachelor of Elementary Education), Yhanna Mae A. Deliman (Bachelor of Secondary Education – Social Studies Education), Shanne S. Jayma (Bachelor of Physical Education), Adelfa L. Punay and Ronald Jay Lolo (Bachelor of Secondary Education – Science Education), Athea Ville D. Erejer (Bachelor of Secondary Education – English Education), and Maria Isabel O. Balaba (Bachelor of Physical Education), are set to immerse in an international teaching experience at Universitas Islam Darul ‘Ulum (UNISDA) in Indonesia. They are scheduled to depart on April 9, 2025, to represent Southern Leyte State University in this enriching global exchange.

To honor this milestone, two send-off ceremonies were conducted for the exchange participants.

The first program was held on April 3, 2025, at the SLSU Main Campus, where key university officials expressed their support and encouragement for the pre-service teachers. Dr. Constantino G. Medilo, Jr., the Vice President for Academic Affairs emphasized the role of the SEAMEO program in enhancing intercultural competence and preparing future educators for a globalized teaching environment.

The second send-off program took place on April 4, 2025, at the SLSU-Tomas Oppus Mini Theatre, attended by the Campus Director Dr. Clemente H. Cobilla, Campus Dean Dr. Norla Grace A. Betarmos, representing the External Linkages and International Affairs (ELIA) Office, Mr. Elizan delivered a message on behalf of ELIA Director Dr. Ingrid M. Uy. SEA-Teacher Coordinator, program heads from various education departments, pioneering sea-teacher, student-teachers, and the seven SEAMEO pre-service exchange students along with their parents or guardians. This more intimate gathering served both as a pre-departure orientation and a heartfelt send-off from their home campus.

These future educators are ready to soar beyond borders, carrying with them the spirit of academic excellence, cultural pride, and the heart of a true SLSU Mighty Kingfisher.

This initiative also aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), as it promotes inclusive and equitable quality education while strengthening international collaboration in teacher education and global citizenship.