A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed between Ibaraki Christian (IC) University represented by Mr. Hiroshi Shoji, IC President and University of Negros Occidental- Recoletos (UNO-R) represented by Rev. Fr. Don. H. Besana, OAR, UNO-Recoletos President at the Presidents’ Hall of UNO-R on August 7, 2019. Rev. Fr. Jose Alden B. Alipin, OAR, VP-Academics gave the opening remarks. Then, Dr. Carlos Eduardo Legaspi, Jr., Director of External Affairs read the Memorandum of Agreement. IC University and UNO-Recoletos agreed for a study abroad program for IC University students, which will be beneficial for both institutions. The primary purpose of this program is to allow students to improve their English Language abilities and their understanding of other cultures. Five IC students are now enrolled in English as a Second Language (ESL) Program namely; Yuta Fukuda; Daiki Konatsuzaki; Yume Okazaki; Ayaka Sakamoto; and Miku Taguchi. ESL Program is under the UNO-R Special Technological and Educational Program (STEP) Office. Fr. President delivered a message as he emphasized the significance of collaboration in attaining global peace and understanding. He further said that what is important in any partnership is friendship, the friendship that St. Augustine defined as “To love and be loved is the most important thing for me.” While, Mr. Shoji gratefully conveys his thanksgiving to the partnership built by both institutions. Among the guests of the program are the Dong-A University students, Korea, who are enrolled in Teaching English for Students of Other Languages (TESOL) Seminar, Mr. Cho Kyoung Pill and Ms. Marah Yusay of Jason English Language School (JELS), ESL Professors, and lay administrators. Furthermore, the Kasadyahan Dance Company (KDC) performed a cultural Filipino Dance to the visitors and the program ended with a fellowship. The master of ceremony was Mr. Elmeer Meeynard D. Calimpos, staff of STEP. (news by Elmeer Meeynard D. Calimpos)
