2024 DLSU x Chula Exchange

 

2024 DLSU x Chula Exchange

Twenty-nine students from De La Salle University (DLSU) Manila and Laguna campuses participated in a 10-day Student International Exchange Program (SIEP) in Bangkok, Thailand, from August 23 – September 2024. The annual program began in 2012 and aims to strengthen ties between DLSU and Chulalongkorn University (CU). This year, the student delegation was accompanied by three DLSU faculty members, including two CU alumni: Associate Professor Dr. Irene Olivia Ubay–Anongphouth and Assistant Professor Cheryl Lyne Roxas, and Assistant Professor Miller Cutora. The program allowed students to experience Thai culture through various educational, cultural, and social activities.

The first three days of the program focused on a cultural immersion tour of the city, during which students sampled local cuisine and engaged with Thai customs and beliefs. Led by the faculty members, students explored popular local landmarks in Bangkok to help them acclimate to their new environment. They visited cultural and religious sites, such as the Royal Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Saket, Ban Bat, Wat Suthat, Wat Ratchanatdaram, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Mahathat, and Wat Chai Wattanaram, gaining a deeper appreciation for Thai culture.

On Day 4, the students attended an orientation and seminar at CU, hosted by Assistant Prof. Dr. Chayut Ngamkhanong, Deputy Head of Research and International Affairs at the university's Department of Civil Engineering. They were also welcomed by the department chair Professor Kasem Choocharukul. The seminar provided an overview of the civil engineering program at CU, including available courses and scholarships for prospective graduate students. Six DLSU students and seven CU students also presented their research across various specializations, including Construction Technology and Management (CTM), Hydraulics and Water Resources Engineering (HWR), Geotechnical Engineering (GTE), and Transportation Engineering (TRE).

In the afternoon, students toured CU’s geotechnical, concrete testing, and material testing laboratories, gaining insight into the practical applications of civil engineering concepts. They also visited the engineering library.

The visit concluded with a simple ceremony, during which DLSU presented a certificate of appreciation to CU Department of Civil Engineering in gratitude for their hospitality. Henri Haggai Cua, the DLSU SIEP student representative for the Thailand delegation, presented the certificate and tokens of appreciation to the CU professors.

On the fifth day, the students visited Tipco Asphalt Public Company, where they received a tour and an orientation covering the company’s overview, operations, and industry connections. During the visit, the students explored the Research and Development laboratory, where they learned about the processes involved in testing various asphalt mixes to determine their specifications and properties for different applications.

DLSU SIEP delegation visits Tipco Asphalt Public Company.

DLSU SIEP delegation visits the CH Karnchang construction site in front of the Parliament Building

On the sixth day of their exchange program, the students visited the CH Karnchang office, where they gained firsthand insight into the ongoing construction of the MRT Purple Line, which features ten underground and seven elevated stations. They had the unique opportunity to visit one of the underground stations near the Parliament House, where they learned about the construction process and the use of specialized machinery like the Tunnel Boring Machine.

The remaining days of the program were dedicated to exploring more of Bangkok’s rich cultural heritage. The student delegation visited several iconic sites, including the Ancient City Museum and Muang Boran, which offer a detailed glimpse into Thailand’s historical architecture and traditions. They also toured the Jim Thompson House, a museum showcasing the history of the Thai silk industry and the life of Jim Thompson, an American businessman credited with revitalizing the silk trade in Thailand. To complete their cultural immersion, the students spent time at the bustling Cha Tu Chak Weekend Market, one of the largest markets in the world, where they experienced local commerce, crafts, and street food.

Exploring Thai culture and cuisine

Overall, the SIEP to Thailand, organized by the DLSU Department of Civil Engineering, proved to be a valuable and enriching experience for its participants. Beyond the academic seminars and research presentations, the program offered students a balanced combination of cultural exposure and practical learning opportunities. From exploring Thailand’s history and traditions to gaining firsthand knowledge of cutting-edge civil engineering practices, such as those seen in the MRT Purple Line construction and the Tipco Asphalt laboratory, the students broadened their perspectives both as future engineers and global citizens.

This program not only strengthened the academic ties between DLSU and CU but also fostered personal and professional growth for future DLSU civil engineering graduates. By engaging in cross-cultural exchanges, networking with international faculty and students, and experiencing the application of engineering concepts in a global context, participants returned home with a deeper understanding of their field and the broader world around them. This holistic experience prepares them to contribute meaningfully to the civil engineering profession both locally and internationally.