A delegation of college heads from Southville International School and Colleges (SISC), College Division, embarked on a significant professional development journey in Bangkok, Thailand, late this July. Representing SISC’s Level 4 programs, Dr. Ruel Cajili, Dr. Aris Ignacio, Dr. Liza Jimenez, Ms. Christine Baculao, and Dr. Astrid De Leon participated in the intensive ASEAN University Network Quality Assurance (AUN QA) training program.

The four-day training provided a comprehensive orientation on the 8 AUN QA criteria, which serve as a pivotal framework for fostering excellence in higher education institutions across the Asian region. The program brought together a diverse group of delegates from Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines, fostering a rich environment for cross-cultural learning and collaboration.

Beyond the formal training, the AUN QA program presented an invaluable opportunity for the SISC delegates to establish vital quality assurance networks among top Asian universities. This networking facilitated the exchange of best practices and insights, strengthening the collective pursuit of academic excellence in the region. Furthermore, the training equipped the delegates with practical tools and methodologies to critically assess their own institutions, guiding them in their continuous journey towards quality and distinction.

In addition to the AUN QA training, the SISC delegates maximized their time in Bangkok by engaging in crucial benchmarking activities. They visited Bangkok University, a renowned practical university specializing in creative arts, gaining valuable insights into its innovative approaches to education. The delegation also had the privilege of visiting Chulalongkorn University, one of Asia’s most prestigious research universities, allowing for a deeper understanding of advanced research methodologies and academic rigor.