A mathematics and science professor at the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), Dr. Herman Lagon, has successfully completed the recently concluded AIMS (Asian International Mobility for Students) Summer Intensive Programme conducted at Hiroshima University, Japan. The program was held under the theme “Future of Higher Learning from Student Perspectives” last August 1-8, 2024.
Dr. Lagon’s participation in the program, which brought together 28 students from various countries, including the Philippines, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, China, Nigeria, and Indonesia, was recognized with a certificate signed by Asst. Prof. Dr. Romyen Kosaikanont, Centre Director of SEAMEO RIHED, and Dr. Hotta Taiji, Deputy Executive Director (SGU) and Professor of the IDEC Institute at Hiroshima University. Among the participants, Dr. Lagon was acknowledged as one of the group’s elders, being one of only five participants already engaged in graduate studies. The rest of the cohort comprised senior undergraduate students and leaders from diverse fields such as engineering, environmental science, programming, education, microbiology, agriculture, psychology, history, business, international politics, tourism, and law.
Dr. Lagon led his team in formulating a higher education pitch entitled the Free University Microcredential International Hybrid Program, one of the outputs of the Summer Program. The assessors considered this proposal groundbreaking and designed to democratize education on an unprecedented scale and champion social justice by making it accessible and free for all who wish to enhance their employability. Like its five other counterparts, the team presented it to 200 higher education leaders from different Asian universities under the AIMS network last August 8, 2024, at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Hall at the heart of Hiroshima City. No less than CHED IAS Director Atty. Lily Freida C. Macabangun-Milla affirmed the team’s “excellent” performance.
Dr. Lagon, former Director of the Office of International Affairs and Linkages (OIAL) and present Director of the Public Affairs, Marketing, and Media Communications Office (PAMMCO) of ISUFST, is among the four Filipino delegates who passed a rigid screening process done by both the Commission on Higher Education International Affairs Service (CHED IAS) and the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization Regional Centre (SEAMEO RIHED). His nomination was endorsed by the school where he is finishing his PhD in Educational Leadership, the University of St. La Salle (USLS)-Bacolod, one of the few select members of the AIMS program in the Philippines. This marks the first time ISUFST has been represented in the CHED-SEAMEO-RIHED-supported AIMS Program.
Upon arriving at Hiroshima University (HU) on July 31, participants were immediately immersed in their journey with an orientation and campus tour. The activities kicked off on August 1 with ice-breaking exercises and brainstorming sessions designed to foster interaction and camaraderie among the group. The day concluded with a warm and welcoming dinner, setting a positive tone for the days ahead.
On August 2, students engaged in “Ideas Mining” workshops aimed at stimulating innovative thinking and collaborative problem-solving. The afternoon featured an educational tour of the Naka Incineration Plant, offering valuable insights into Japan’s environmental sustainability practices.
August 3 was dedicated to lectures and discussions at Hiroshima University’s Graduate School for International Development and Cooperation (IDEC). Students delved into cutting-edge topics such as “Society 5.0 and the Future of University,” “Diversity and Inclusiveness,” and “What Makes a Good Teacher?” These sessions, led by distinguished professors, prompted participants to reflect on the future of education and their roles as emerging leaders.
The fourth day centered on preparation for a mid-program presentation. Students received guidance on creating effective presentation slides, enhancing public speaking skills, and overcoming common presentation challenges. In the afternoon, participants presented their initial ideas and insights, applying the knowledge gained from previous sessions.
A pivotal part of the program occurred on August 5 and 6, with visits to Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park and attendance at the Peace Memorial Ceremony. These experiences allowed participants to reflect on global peace and the profound impact of history on contemporary society. A particularly emotional moment was hearing the vivid accounts of an A-bomb survivor Michiko Kono and a Jesuit priest who narrated how his spiritual director Fr. Pedro Arrupe, SJj, saved the lives of more then 150 survivors at ground zero, providing a deeply personal perspective on the importance of peace and being a person for others.
The final days of the program were dedicated to preparing and delivering final presentations. On August 8, students showcased their learning and group work at the International Conference Center Hiroshima. The delegates also attended the 18th Annual Review Meeting of AIMS, followed by a wrap-up session and a farewell lunch. August 9 marked the end of the program as delegates bid farewell to their colleagues and departed for their respective destinations.
Initiated in 2010, the AIMS Programme has been a transformative experience for about 7,000 students, enriching their education through living and studying in other countries. It facilitates student mobility and collaboration between Asia and other regions in the world, promoting academic and cross-cultural skills development, regional integration, and development, among governments, universities, and students. Many alumni of the program have described their exchange experiences as life-changing and have made significant contributions to regional understanding, cooperation, and friendship.
Dr. Lagon’s involvement in the AIMS Programme is a testament to ISUFST’s commitment to internationalization, professional development, and collaborative education. By participating in this program, ISUFST further solidifies its role in contributing to the sustainable development of the ASEAN region and Asia as a whole, which is in line with AIMS’ goals of fostering globalized human resources and promoting greater inclusivity through multilateral efforts. (PAMMCO)
