LEICESTER, UNITED KINGDOM — Southville International School Affiliated with Foreign Universities (SISFU) and Southville International School and Colleges (SISC) reinforced their commitment to global academic excellence through participation in the DMU TNHE Symposium 2026 hosted by De Montfort University (DMU) in Leicester, United Kingdom.

The DMU TNHE Symposium 2026 provided Southville leaders with a valuable opportunity to benchmark international best practices, strengthen existing partnerships, and explore innovative academic pathways that will benefit both students and faculty. The event brought together De Montfort University’s transnational education partners from around the world to discuss the future of international higher education and global collaboration.

The Southville delegation was led by Dr. Jocelyn P. Tizon, President of SISC and SISFU, together with Dr. Astrid de Leon, Director for Academic Affairs, and Dr. Ruel Cajili, Dean of Psychology.

Strengthening International Academic Partnerships

Upon arrival, the Southville delegation was warmly welcomed by Professor Katie Normington, Vice-Chancellor of De Montfort University, along with Mrs. Nas Harrison, Associate Professor in Transnational Education and Head of Global Partnerships and Engagement, Dr. Neil Hart, Associate Director of Transnational Education, and Aamena Meidell, Senior Partnerships Officer.

The symposium served as a platform for partner institutions to exchange insights, share best practices, and discuss emerging trends shaping the future of transnational higher education. Through collaborative sessions and networking opportunities, participants explored strategies for delivering high-quality international education experiences in an increasingly interconnected world.

Exploring the Future of Transnational Higher Education

Over two days, attendees of the DMU TNHE Symposium 2026 engaged in discussions covering DMU’s Transnational Education (TNE) strategy, recent developments in global higher education, student experience enhancement, sustainability initiatives through the UN SDG Hub, and student-centered approaches to learning.

The programme also featured presentations from the British Council, Universities UK International (UUKi), partner-led discussions, and collaborative workshops focused on emerging opportunities in international education and cross-border academic partnerships.

New Opportunities in Psychology, IT, Nursing, and Business

As part of the visit, Southville representatives met with DMU Deans and academic leaders to explore future collaborations in key disciplines, including Psychology, Information Technology, Nursing, and Business. These discussions opened new possibilities for international academic programs, faculty collaboration, student exchange initiatives, and expanded mobility opportunities.

The engagement reflects Southville’s continuing efforts to provide students with globally relevant learning experiences and access to international academic networks that enhance career readiness and global competitiveness.

Advancing a Shared Vision for Global Education

Participation in the DMU TNHE Symposium 2026 further strengthened the longstanding partnership between SISFU, SISC, and De Montfort University. The visit reaffirmed a shared commitment to delivering world-class education, fostering international collaboration, and creating transformative opportunities for learners in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

As Southville continues to expand its international partnerships, initiatives such as the DMU TNHE Symposium 2026 play a vital role in ensuring that students benefit from innovative, globally connected educational experiences that prepare them for success in the 21st century.