A TEAM from the La Union-based Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU) has completed a faculty exchange program from March 13 to 18, 2024 at Daffodil International University (DIU) in Bangladesh.

The DMMMSU International Affairs (IA) team composed of IA university director Jesus Rafael Jarata and university coordinator for Cross-Border Education Jerald Saculles said the faculty exchange was "successful and productive," according to DMMMSU Strategic Communication Office (SCO).

The SCO headed by Maricon Viduya said the IA team brought significant insights and strategic plans "to enhance the university's international collaborations and academic exchange initiatives."

The SCO added that the program was made possible under the renewed partnership between DMMMSU and DIU.

During the team's week-long engagement, Jarata and Saculles participated in various academic and administrative discussions, focusing on expanding DMMMSU's global footprint.

Jarata lectured on storytelling on social media, traditions of communication, and digital communication for Master of Arts students and served as a judge and panel discussant during the Media Buzz organized by the DIU Department of Journalism, Media and Communication.

On the other hand, Saculles also conducted lectures on Language and Culture, the Sapir-Whorf Hypothesis, and Contemporary Issues in English Language Teaching at the DIU Department of English.

Both Jarata and Saculles also went through recording sessions of selected topics for the International Open University at the Media Lab of DIU.

According to the DMMMSU SCO, the partnership with DIU marks a significant step forward for DMMMSU's strategic goals.

"Our experience at DIU was immensely valuable and we explored several collaborative opportunities, including student and faculty exchanges, joint research projects, and the implementation of Erasmus+ strategies that will greatly benefit DMMMSU," Jarata said.

He added that the IA team's visit to Bangladesh has "strengthened existing ties and laid the groundwork for future collaborations."

He said the team also had exploratory meetings with other foreign lecturers from Turkiye, Romania, India and the USA for possible collaborations.

Highlighting the mutual benefits of the partnership, Saculles noted that both DMMMSU and DIU are committed to fostering academic excellence and cultural exchange.

"This program has opened doors for our faculty and students to gain international exposure and experience," he said.

Meanwhile, Syed Raihan, DIU deputy director of international affairs, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration adding that they were delighted to host the DMMMSU team.

"Their visit was a testament to the power of international cooperation in higher education. We are excited about the potential joint initiatives emerging from this partnership, which will greatly benefit our students and faculty," Raihan said.