Kidapawan City, Philippines — Central
Mindanao Colleges (CMC), through its Center for International Affairs and
Linkages (CIAL), reinforced its commitment to strategic and inclusive
internationalization by participating in the virtual conference “Laying the
Groundwork: A Starter Workshop on Higher Education Internationalization” on
February 19, 2026. The session was part of Internationalization (IZN) Week 2026
hosted by Ateneo de Davao University through its Ateneo Internationalization
for Mindanao Office.
Representing CMC were Cristoper D.
Fernando, President of the Passionate and Responsive Individuals for Strategic
Internationalization and Sustainable Development in Mindanao (PRISM), together
with student leaders Jannesah Leah Amboludan and Daniel Paul Marañon. Their
participation highlights the active role of students in advancing the
institution’s internationalization initiatives under the LIYAG banner.
The workshop emphasized that
internationalization extends beyond exchanges and memoranda of agreement. It
requires embedding global perspectives into instruction, research, and
extension while remaining rooted in local identity and community engagement. This
direction aligns with CMC’s internationalization framework guided by national
policies and implemented through both home-based and cross-border initiatives.
Discussions from regional higher education
leaders underscored the importance of digital collaboration, strategic
partnerships, and institutional readiness in expanding global engagement
despite geographical limitations. For CIAL and PRISM, the session provided
practical insights to strengthen partnership development, program
implementation, and student-centered internationalization within the CMC
community.
As the student arm of CIAL, PRISM ensures
that internationalization remains inclusive and accessible. Participation in
IZN Week empowers student leaders to help bring global perspectives into CMC
while preparing students to engage confidently beyond national borders. The
engagement supports the institution’s mission of developing graduates who are
globally competent and socially responsible.
CMC’s participation contributes directly
to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4:
Quality Education, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, and SDG 17: Partnerships for
the Goals. By strengthening institutional linkages and expanding access to
global learning opportunities, CIAL advances meaningful internationalization
that benefits the Mindanao academic community.
The engagement in IZN Week 2026 reflects CMC’s continuing progress in institutionalizing internationalization as a strategic priority. Through strengthened partnerships, student leadership, and structured programs under LIYAG, CIAL remains committed to advancing globally relevant, values-driven education in pursuit of CMC and Beyond — Excellence Without Boarders.
Publishers: CMC Cial Activities