Makati City, Philippines – Officials and faculty members from Wesleyan University-Philippines (WUP) joined heads and faculty of the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) in a dynamic exchange to explore global career pathways, industry-connected programs, and scholarship opportunities.The event, held on September 14, 2025, at Discovery Primea Manila, was organized through the invitation of Thomas Wu, International Development Manager at UTS and an expert in international collaboration, transnational education, and institutional partnerships. The gathering also featured inspiring testimonies from UTS Filipino alumni who shared how the university empowered them to thrive at the intersection of technology and creativity.

This engagement followed the executive immersion of WUP officials at UTS in June 2025.

WUP Vice President for Academic Affairs, Wilfredo C. Ramos, described the discussions as both “refreshing and inspiring,” noting:

“We were truly amazed by the advancements showcased through their diverse academic offerings, and deeply motivated to aspire for the same in the future. UTS also warmly welcomed our inquiries and answered each question with clarity and sincerity, making the experience even more meaningful.”

Director of Internationalization and Linkages, Rio Anne B. Dizon, emphasized the transformative impact of alumni stories:

“The testimonies of UTS alumni prove that there are truly many things beyond the classroom that contribute not only to academic improvement but also to self-actualization. By collaborating with international partners such as UTS, Wesleyan University-Philippines can provide its students with opportunities to explore the world and further develop themselves.

The true leverage of WUP students lies in their deep roots in excellence and piety. Sa kanilang pagpunta sa ibayong dagat upang magpakadalubhasa, dala nila ang maigting na pagmamalasakit sa bayan—handang bumalik upang maging katuwang sa pag-abot ng lipunan tungo sa kaunlaran at sa pag-ahon mula sa kahirapan.”

WUP officials engaged with UTS faculty members representing diverse fields—including Nursing and Midwifery, Science and Health, Electrical and Data Engineering, Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Forensic Science, Architecture, Design and Society, and Evolutionary Computation in Design.

For Carissa Juliana R. Balaria, Dean of the College of Nursing, the event was particularly eye-opening:

“Their emphasis on practice-based education is a fantastic approach to bring into our nursing program, as it could lead to meaningful partnerships and global opportunities for our students.”

Similarly, Kay Ann J. Tongol, Dean of the College of Allied Medical Sciences, highlighted opportunities for faculty development:
“We believe in investing in our faculty members, as they are the true pearls of our institution. The knowledge and experiences they will gain from international universities will ultimately be translated into better learning for our students and improved delivery of healthcare.”

Meanwhile, Ryan L. De Lara, Dean of the College of Engineering and Computer Technology, underscored UTS’s forward-looking vision:
“Our engagement with UTS faculty and alumni underscored the meaningful integration of creativity and technology. With highly sought-after programs in Engineering and Information Technology—aligned with emerging fields such as AI and Cybersecurity—UTS establishes a benchmark of innovation that CECT looks forward to introducing soon through program and course offerings and possible partnerships.”

Commenting that this is truly insightful, Dulce Amor C. Padilla, Dean of the College of Hospitality and Tourism Management, said,
“Listening to the students’ experiences at the University of Technology Sydney was truly insightful. Their testimonies highlighted how global education nurtures both academic excellence and personal development, which greatly inspires our own initiatives for student growth.”

This networking event forms part of WUP’s continuing efforts to strengthen internationalization and linkages. By pursuing viable and strategic collaborations, the university aims to further realize its vision of preparing globally competitive graduates rooted in excellence, service, and compassion.

Written by Gladys P. Mangiduyos
Photos provided by Gladys P. Mangiduyos, Ryan John De Lara, and Wilfredo Ramos