With an initiative for borderless education, the University of the Philippines (UP) launched its flagship program, the University of the Philippines – Ventures for Innovative Transnational Academia (UP VINTA), and continued its voyage on 8 June 2024 in the vibrant city of Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The UP VINTA program brings forth its principles which are centered around inclusivity, quality instruction, innovation, and public service to redefine the boundaries of education and approach to learning. As this pioneering program initiative extends its reach to various parts of Asia, it remains steadfast in its mission to break down barriers and uplift Filipino learners, regardless of their location, to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
The project’s launch in the UAE began with welcoming remarks from His Excellency Alfonso Ferdinand Ver, Philippine Ambassador to the UAE. Following this, a symbol of partnership was presented to the Ambassador to commemorate this significant event.
Dr. Melinda dP. Bandalaria, Chancellor of the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU), formally initiated the launch of UP VINTA alongside H.E. Alfonso Ferdinand Ver, UP President Atty. Angelo Jimenez, and UPOU alumna Ms. Raquel Masaga, led the ceremonial launch. Additionally, Atty. Abraham Rey M. Acosta, Vice President for Legal Affairs, provided an in-depth introduction to the UP VINTA program to the attendees.
During the latter portion of the event, Atty. Angelo A. Jimenez, President of the UP System, delivered a compelling message emphasizing the importance of quality and borderless education and its profound impact on the lives of our OFWs. Following his speech, His Excellency Marford Angeles, Consul General of Dubai, offered a thoughtful response. Chancellor Bandalaria then facilitated an open forum, encouraging active participation and discussion from the audience. This was followed by a final message from Dr. Daniel C. Peckley Jr., Vice President for Development, who reiterated the core objectives of the project and underscored the pivotal role of collaboration in achieving its success.
Also present during the said launch were: UP Manila College of Nursing Dean, Dr. Sheila Bonito; UPOU Faculty of Management and Development Studies Dean, Dr. Joane Serrano who discussed the importance of microcredentials and how this can impact the program; and UPOU Master of Arts in Nursing Program Chair Asst. Prof. Ria Valerie Cabanes. The event was hosted by the UPOU Linkages Officer Margaret Jarmin-Suarez.
As the UP VINTA launch in UAE marks the third (3rd) phase of the groundbreaking project, it further reflects a significant advancement towards education without borders and echoes UP’s commitment to inclusivity, quality, innovation, and public service.
Written by Alexil Cheska T. Fajardo ♦ Edited by Margaret Jarmin-Suarez and Yasele Irene Angela Yambao
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