By Karren Jay G. Asgar
Prof. Lesley Joy L. Dignadice, Acting Director of the Local and International Linkages and Affiliations Center (3rd from right); Ms. Ghia Joy B. Bermejo (2nd from right); and Mariette Jeselle Dela Cruz (right) pose for a photo opportunity alongside Ms. Nanami Chinaysu Tsuyama (center), Ms. Yuki Kobayashi-Loot, and the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers.
Prof. Lesley Joy L. Dignadice, Acting Director of the Local and International Linkages and Affiliations Center (LILAC), together with Ghia Joy B. Bermejo and Mariette Jeselle Dela Cruz from the University Junior High School, participated in the Global Citizenship and the SDGs Open Day: A One-Day Session Promoting Global Citizenship and SDGs to Japanese and Filipino Youth. The session took place on December 11, 2024, at Sam鈥檚 Hotel, Diversion Road, Mandurriao, Iloilo City.
The event was a collaborative effort between the Love Our Own Brethren (LOOB) Inc. and the Japan Foundation Manila. Its primary goal was to provide valuable insights for universities and schools about the prospective opportunities available for Filipino students to enhance their global awareness, and academic journey through intercultural exchange and responsible citizenship in today鈥檚 interconnected world.
鈥淚 am truly honored to have been part of the Global Citizenship and the SDGs Open Day. The event provided a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and experts who are passionate about making a difference. It was inspiring to hear diverse perspectives and learn about the tangible actions being taken to address global challenges.,鈥 said Prof. Dignadice in an interview.
Highlights of the session included various presentations from esteemed resource speakers. The first presentation, titled 鈥淐ultivating Global Citizenship & the SDGs: Nurturing Tomorrow鈥檚 Leaders,鈥 was delivered by Ms. Nanami Chinatsu Tsuyama. Attendees gained valuable insights into the importance of global citizenship, emphasizing the understanding of diverse cultures, perspectives, and global issues. Next, Ms. Sachiko Yoshinaga presented 鈥淓xplore, Discover & Learn in Japan,鈥 where she highlighted Japan鈥檚 rich culture, ancient traditions, and its strong commitment to sustainable development. Finally, Ms. Asami Okumura provided an engaging presentation on 鈥淭rends and Future Prospects of Online International Exchange in the Digital and AI Era: Insights from the Case of With The World.鈥 Participants were introduced to the story of With The World, an initiative promoting online international exchange that fosters global understanding, innovation, and personal growth.
鈥淏eing part of such a meaningful conversation has deepened my understanding of the SDGs and reinforced my commitment to contributing to these global goals in whatever way I can. I鈥檓 excited to continue learning and taking action in the Centralian community to support the achievement of these important objectives,鈥 she added.
CPU鈥檚 participation in this event reaffirms its commitment to actively promote the SDGs and contribute to shaping a more sustainable and equitable future.