Benilde Strengthens Global Ties with NTUT to Expand Cross-Cultural Education
Benilde Strengthens Global Ties with NTUT to Expand Cross-Cultural Education
24 February 2025
De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (Benilde) and the National University Corporation Tsukuba University of Technology (NTUT) formalized a promising partnership with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on February 13, 2025, at the Vatel Restaurant at The Atrium@Benilde Campus. Inclusive, innovative, and globally relevant education is the focus of this landmark agreement, highlighting the dedication of both institutions.
The MOU establishes a robust framework for collaboration, emphasizing student and faculty exchanges, joint research initiatives, and immersive learning experiences such as internships and fieldwork across disciplines like information technology, health sciences, education, and design. These initiatives aim to equip participants with global competencies while fostering cross-cultural understanding, interdisciplinary problem-solving, and industry-ready skills that extend beyond traditional classroom learning.
This partnership builds on Benilde’s visit to NTUT in November 2024, reflecting months of dialogue and exploration. During the visit, Benilde representatives engaged with NTUT’s inclusive education initiatives, exchanging insights that shaped the current agreement and strengthened their shared commitment to accessible, transformative learning. National University Corporation Tsukuba University of Technology (NTUT), located in Japan, is the country’s only university dedicated to students who are blind, deaf, or hard of hearing.
A key highlight of the partnership is the adoption of Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL), an innovative teaching model that connects students and faculty from Benilde and NTUT through shared virtual courses, bridging geographical divides. Unlike conventional online classes, COIL integrates project-based collaborations, live discussions, and co-created content, with students working in cross-cultural teams to address real-world challenges. Faculty from both institutions will co-design modules tailored to their strengths, creating an enriching exchange of knowledge and teaching practices while encouraging fresh perspectives and dynamic learning.
Benilde Chancellor Benhur A. Ong expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “Today marks the beginning of something truly special. Through this collaboration, we aim to create new opportunities for growth and learning, starting with our Deaf program and aspiring to expand into other disciplines.”
COIL provides an inclusive platform for students who may face barriers to international travel, ensuring that cross-border educational opportunities remain accessible. Participants will engage in multidisciplinary projects spanning fields such as information technology, health sciences, education, and design, applying their expertise to collaborative problem-solving. This structure not only enhances technical proficiency but also cultivates critical thinking, creativity, and cross-cultural communication—skills increasingly valued in today’s interconnected world.
The agreement was signed by Benilde Chancellor Mr. Benhur Ong and Vice Chancellor for Academics Mr. Angelo Lacson, alongside NTUT Chair of International Exchange Rumi Hiraga, Ph.D., and Assistant Professor Kobayashi Yoko, Ph.D., M.P.H. By signing the agreement, each institution embraces a vision for educational environments that cross borders and celebrate diversity. This collaboration reinforces their mission to prepare learners for success in an ever-changing global landscape. Through this partnership, Benilde continues to strengthen its position as a leader in inclusive and innovative education
For more information on Benilde’s Applied Deaf Studies program, other undergraduate programs and Benildean student life, contact us at (63) 2 8230 5100 local 1801 or admissions@benilde.edu.ph. You may also visit our website at www.benilde.edu.ph.
