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MSU-IIT takes part in the 5th ATU-Net International Staff Week 2024 at Bandung, Indonesia

by OVCIA | Jun 21 2024

MSU-IIT, a founding member of the Asia Technological University Network (ATU-Net), took part in the 5th ATU-Net International Staff Week (ISW) 2024 from June 11 to 13, 2024, at the West Hall of Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB), Bandung, Indonesia. Themed “Nurturing Staff Competence for Internationalization,” this event brought together educators and administrators to elevate the capabilities of international office staff across Asia. 

The university's delegation, led by Vice-Chancellor for International Affairs, Dr. Joey Genevieve T. Martinez, DSc, included CHS Faculty Member Assoc. Prof. Neil M. Martin and Administrative Assistant in OVCIA, Mr. James M. Laranjo. Their active engagement underscored MSU-IIT's dedication to internationalization, aligning seamlessly with the university’s strategic goals to enhance global partnerships and governance.

The core mission of ATU-Net ISW 2024 was to elevate the management of international offices, cultivate intercultural competencies, and disseminate best practices in international relations. This initiative aimed to weave stronger bonds among ATU-Net member institutions, promoting global understanding and educational excellence.

The event delved into three sub-themes: (1) revitalizing mobility practices for students and staff, (2) strengthening institutional management, and (3) forging enduring multilateral partnerships. Through a blend of keynote sessions, panel discussions, workshops, and roundtable discussions, participants engaged in thought-provoking dialogues and skill-building activities. 

The event kicked off on Day 1 with compelling keynote sessions on sustainable mobility and effective student mobility management, followed by workshops on designing a staff and students mobility program and exchanging best practices. 

Mr. Laranjo presented during the plenary session and talked about the insights and conclusions on various aspects of staff and student mobility programs. He highlighted several institutional initiatives on mobility programs; emphasized the importance of a comprehensive approach to managing mobility programs, considering the budget, resources, and institutional support needed; and underlined the significance of equipping staff with the necessary skills to foster a successful mobility environment.

On Day 2, a discussion on intercultural management tackling cultural nuances, work ethics, and international collaboration challenges happened, complemented by a campus tour and networking opportunities. 

Dr. Martinez also served as a guest speaker at the conference where he showed his presentation titled,  'Leading Mindanao to the World,' highlighting the internationalization agenda of MSU-IIT. He described how the top management has proactively addressed critical issues through innovative strategies to advance this goal. 

He also underscored MSU-IIT's leading role, as a delivering Higher Education Institution identified by the Commission on Higher Education, in empowering higher education institutions across the Philippines, fostering academic excellence and institutional development. Furthermore, he discussed the strategic efforts to create an enabling environment that fosters increased collaborations, particularly within the ASEAN region.

Associate Professor Neil M. Martin also presented at the plenary discussion on the topic of Intercultural Management. He highlighted the experience of working across cultures, addressing the associated challenges and expectations. Additionally, he shared the strategies they aim to implement for managing different cultural expectations, specifically the Power 5 E model: Explore, Educate, Engage, Embrace, and Enjoy.

The event concluded with roundtable discussions on sustaining partnerships and presentations on institutional strategies, in which the MSU-IIT delegates actively participated as well.

ATU-Net ISW 2024 was a resounding success, empowering international office staff through skill enhancement, sharing of best practices, and fostering global networks. 

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