SLSU-TO Teaching Interns goes global for an International Exchange Journey in UNISDA, Indonesia

Seven pre-service teachers from Southern Leyte State University – Tomas Oppus (SLSU-TO) have embarked on an international teaching exchange program at Universitas Islam Darul 'Ulum (UNISDA) in Lamongan, Indonesia, under the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO) Secretariat's SEA-Teacher Project. The SLSU-TO student teachers participating in the program include Yhanna Mae A. Deliman (BSEd Social Studies), Ronald Jay Lolo and Adelfa Punay (BSEd Science), Maria Isabel Balaba and Shaanne Jayma (BPEd), Athea Ville Erejer (BSEd English), and Crystal Labunog (BEEd).  Their journey began on April 9, 2025, with their departure from the Philippines and arrival in Indonesia the following day.

The program officially commenced with a courtesy call and welcome event at UNISDA on April 10, where university officials warmly received the interns and their coordinator, Dr. Lilian Balbon. UNISDA Rector Muhammad Hadith Nashrullah, S.E., M.M., emphasized the importance of the experience, expressing his hope that the cultural and academic immersion would enhance the interns' growth as future educators. Dr. Balbon, who spearheads the SEA-Teacher Project at SLSU-TO, also addressed the gathering, highlighting the value of international collaboration in education and the opportunities the program provides for intercultural learning and shared development.

On April 11, the interns participated in significant institutional engagements, beginning with a visit to state schools and signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the National Education Office of Lamongan. Later that morning, further MOUs were signed with three cooperating schools that will host the interns throughout their practicum: SMK NU 1 Karenggeneng Lamongan, SMP NU Simo Lamongan, and MIS Tarbiyatul Banat Simo Sunge Kebak Lamongan. That afternoon, the SEA Teacher students were deployed to their assigned schools, where they began their classroom observations.

Over the weekend of April 12 and 13, the student-teachers engaged in class observations, lesson planning, and conferences with their respective mentors, helping them prepare for their teaching roles. On April 14, the interns conducted their teaching demonstrations, which were followed by a feedback session, allowing them to reflect on their performance and receive guidance for further improvement.

Through their participation, the interns contribute to fostering regional educational ties and carry the vision of a more collaborative and interconnected Southeast Asian education community. Aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education), the program fosters inclusive and equitable education while promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.