University of Antique (UA) form part of the Philippine delegation to China to establish strong partnership with Chinese and ASEAN Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in the celebration of China-ASEAN Education Cooperation Week (CAECW) at Gui’an New Area, Guizhou Province, People’s Republic of China, August 28-September 1, 2023.

Dr. Pablo S. Crespo Jr., UA President, alongside Dr. J. Prospero De Vera III, Chairperson of Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Dr. Lily Freida Milla, Director of International Affairs Service, Presidents and Representatives from other Philippine Higher Education Institutions (PHEIs) compose the Philippine delegation that attended a series of thematic parallel sessions including higher education, sustainable development cooperation, industry-education-research-application cooperation, and youth exchange.

Dr. Popoy De Vera on the opening of CAECW stated that the ASEAN-China Digital Education Forum serves as an opportunity to redefine education cooperation and chart a course toward common prosperity. “Let us embrace this new era with unwavering commitment and an open heart. By collaborating, sharing knowledge, and working together, we can build a future where the Belt and Road becomes a path to educational excellence and sustainable development,” he further added.

The Presidents Forum and Education Exhibition was held which served as a venue to showcase each University in order to attract Chinese students, discover emerging trends in student mobility, participate in networking opportunities, identify global marketplace needs, and forge new collaboration between HEIs in China and Philippines. “This is a huge opportunity to broaden our perspective and reach as we establish cooperation with China and the ASEAN Nations. For sure, there are many great things the different HEIs of countries can do together,” Dr. Crespo stated.

Among the members that compose the Philippine delegation are from Mariano Marcos State University, Bohol Island State University, Isabela State University, University of the Cordilleras, University of the Philippines – Diliman, UP Open University, Jose Rizal University, Lyceum of the Philippines University – Batangas, Panpacific University, University of Perpetual Help System, University of Santo Thomas, World Citi Colleges, and Mabalacat City College./UA IAP