Eight Japanese students from various schools in Japan successfully completed a week-long Cultural and Community Immersion Program at the University of San Agustin (USA) from July 27 to August 1, 2026.
Organized by Grow Forward JP Inc. and facilitated by the University’s Social Advocacy and Community Engagement Office (SACEO), the program formed part of the students’ academic requirements while promoting meaningful cross-cultural exchange through service-learning and community engagement.
The immersion began with the participants bagging mangrove seedlings alongside 11 APSTV volunteers, highlighting the importance of environmental stewardship and sustainability.
The group then visited Sitio Little Janiuay, Cubay, Jaro, where Ms. Leng Hubag introduced Project Dulot. APSTV volunteers facilitated interactive learning activities for daycare learners, followed by the distribution of snacks to the children, creating a joyful and engaging learning experience.
The program continued at Tiu Cho Teg Integrated Farm School in Lanit, Jaro, where the Japanese students worked together with APSTV members and 10 Senior High School students in various farming activities, including fence installation. The activities were conducted under the guidance of faculty members Annalyn Catacutan and Joyce Nagnal.
As part of its commitment to sustainable community development, Grow Forward JP Inc. also donated six goats to support the farm school’s livelihood initiatives. The immersion concluded with an origami-making session, fostering friendship, cultural appreciation, and collaboration among all participants.
The week-long program exemplified the University’s commitment to global citizenship, community engagement, and international partnerships by providing students with meaningful opportunities to learn, serve, and build lasting cross-cultural connections.
#SDG4QualityEducation #SDG10ReducedInequalities #SDG11SustainableCommunities #SDG15LifeOnLand #SDG17PartnershipsForTheGoals
