TIT Students and Faculty Visit the Philippines - Sept 2015

Building Connections: The DLSU-TokyoTech Student Exchange Program was held from September 2 to 16 wherein fourteen (14) Japanese students along with two (2) professors namely Yamashita Yukihiko, and Winarto Kurniawan of Tokyo Institute of Technology in Japan traveled to the Philippines. The activity aims more than just to introduce Philippine culture to the Japanese visitors. More so, it also aims to create external linkages between the two institutions. The Civil Engineering Society (CES) of DLSU was assigned to assist the visitors in their daily activities in academic activities and cultural tours.

From September 7-11, the Japanese students enrolled in an English class arranged by the DLSU Civil Engineering Department. This class aims to enhance their English language competency. On their last day of English class, the TITECH students graduated from their class each receiving a certificate of completion. Three students namely, Yosei Inoue (First), Takuya Maekawa (Second) and Koki Hashizume (Third) were awarded certificates of recognition for their high grades and ranking.

On the night of September 11, a farewell event was held for our Japanese visitors at the roof deck of Henry Sy Sr. Hall. Students from DLSU and TIT prepared  presentations for the program. While the Filipinos sang "Hawak Kamay" by Yeng Constantino, the Japanese showcased some of their country's wacky and folk dances. The program also included games and icebreakers wherein the Japanese were partnered up with Filipinos in order to better strengthen the ties created in the past few days. Games such as Pinoy Henyo, Tongue Twisters and Newspaper dance were played.

From September 12- 13, all TITECH students and Sensei Kurniawan accompanied by 6 CES officers and 3 CE faculty ventured in an overnight trip at the Palm Beach Resort in Laiya, Batangas. Through the planned activities, both parties became more acquainted with each other. The mini vacation was able to deepen the Filipino-Japanese relationship.

Although it was challenging to break the language barrier between the two groups, both the DLSU and the TITECH students were able to create genuine friendships with one another. Moreover, the time spent will truly be cherished by both groups. The CES students have nothing else to say to them but thank you!

Article by Pat Ayala (CES)