As the four-month cultural immersion and global internship journey of the delegates from Khon Kaen University (KKU), Thailand come to an end, the University of Baguio takes pride in providing a memorable academic and cultural experience that’s one for the books.
Student delegates from the College of Local Administration (KKU-COLA) explored the bounds of educational excellence that broadened their global perspective, enriched their cultural understanding on Southeast Asian Countries, and created a meaningful connection that voyages beyond borders.
As Marcel Proust once said, “The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeing new landscapes, but in having new eyes.”
Made possible through the Empowering Voyage of Learning, Vision, and Exchange (E.V.O.L.V.E.) program mediated by the university, the student delegates were accommodated under the School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts (STELA) department of the university, wherein they participated in classroom discussions and collaborative learning alongside local students.
UB and KKU: An Academic Voyage to New Experiences
The cultural immersion and learning program also gave the KKU exchange students the opportunity to enhance their practical experience by being assigned to the university Library and Research Innovation Extension and Community Outreach (RIECO) division. Allowing them to be trained further in office operations, academic and organizational research support, and foster social and professional communication to UB’s academic community.
Alt Text: Linakges director, Ms. Melanie Rulla-Saro giving recognition and encouragement during the KKU-COLA closing ceremonies program at the Centennial AVR of the University of Baguio
Another milestone created handled to the KKU students was their first-hand exposure to operational tasks and duties within the City Hall of Baguio, pushing experiential learning and providing them with the needed organizational insights about local government and public service delivery. The endeavor brought a remarkable outcome that enhanced their comprehension and direct participation of the students toward their civic responsibilities, leadership, and community involvement. Whilst continuing to nurture and up-skill their accumulated experiences and educational tenure acquired at the University of Baguio.
In addition to their global immersion and efforts in dedicated academic programs, the students actively took part in outreach programs and university events, which gave them the chance to engage with the campus community and learn about the richness of Filipino culture.
Alt Text: STELA BAPS program chair, Ms. Marianne Basoyang (left), STELA Dean, Dr. Antonio Managaliag (center), and international affairs staff, Ms. Angelica Tamayo (right) on the recognition and closing ceremonies program
On March 12, 2026, a closing ceremony was held at the UB Centennial AVR to formally celebrate the program’s completion, joined by the STELA Dean, Dr. Antonio D. Mangaliag; Political Science program chair, Ms. Marianne Basoyang; Linkages Office Director, Ms. Melanie Rulla-Saro; international affairs staff, Ms. Angelica Tamayo; and accompanying student buddies.
Student Testimonials
- Ms. NATTAWAN THAWPROM
‘Hello, my name is Sky. I would like to thank everyone for this wonderful experience. This is my first time abroad. At first, I was very nervous, but when I met all of you and received such a warm welcome, I felt truly comfortable and happy. Thank you so much for taking such good care of us. We truly appreciate your kindness. If we made any mistakes, we sincerely apologize, and we hope to see you all again in the future.’
- Mr. SIKHARIN MAKDEE
‘This was our first time in the Philippines. While the first month was a bit of a struggle as we adjusted to a new culture and society, we made it through thanks to everyone’s help. I want to say a huge thank you to Ma’am for supporting the four of us in everything. No matter what we needed, you were always there to help. Thank you for the warm welcome and this wonderful internship opportunity.’
During the student testimonial, the KKU-COLA delegates expressed their sincere appreciation for the warm hospitality and unwavering assistance received from the university’s academic and student community. Apart from the challenges brought from cultural adjustments, environment settling, and occasional language barriers, they expressed their heartfelt appreciation toward the staff and faculty’s guidance and support made them feel closer to home.
They highlighted how the experience enriched their personal and academic growth. Garnering tropes from expanded knowledge perspectives and improving their communication skills to learning about Filipino culture and traditions. As one student shared,
‘We learned so much during our time here, not only in our work but also in life. Everyone welcomed us warmly, and this experience will always remain meaningful to us.’
- Mr. KRITAYOT WANA
‘I learned so much from your guidance, not only in work but also in life. I truly appreciate all the experiences you shared with me If you ever have a chance to visit Thailand, don’t forget to contact me. I will welcome you warmly, just like how you welcomed me.’
- Ms. SYRAPATSOHN SOTEE
‘I am very grateful to all the professors, Ma’am Melanie, staff of Linkages Office, Ma’am Marianne, and everyone who guided and supported me throughout my internship, even I never mentioned, thank you for your kindness and support me you guys made my experience here very meaningful. Thank you for welcoming me and allowing me to learn this wonderful environment and culture here. I will always remember my time at UB and the people I met here.’
Alt Text: KKU-COLA Students along with STELA BAPS program chair, MS. Marianne Basoyang, and STELA Dean, Dr. Antonio Managaliag on the recognition and closing ceremonies program
With acknowledgment and perseverance given by the E.V.O.L.V.E. Program. Reflecting the university’s commitment to attaining the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 4: Quality Education – academic building and knowledge attainment through diverse perspectives
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – profound and strong partnerships with Southeast Asian institutions and universities
As they prepare to return to Khon Kaen, Thailand, the academic delegates shall continue to reflect the spirit of global education and collaboration, the University of Baguio congratulates and is beyond proud to have bestowed invaluable knowledge, professional experience, intercultural exposure, and new found friendships that would all last for a lifetime for our dear KKU Thailand students. Till next time!
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Written by: Angelica Tamayo
Article Enhancement by: Gabriel Madriaga
