In this era where the world is getting smaller because of fast technological advancements, competition among college graduates in the global industry arena has become tougher.
With this crucial consideration, MIT International School (MITIS), in collaboration with the Department of Education (DepEd) – Muntinlupa Division and Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE) Philippine Office, hosted a forum on tertiary education on November 17, 2011 to help high school students obtain undergraduate degrees of high quality and international standards.
The forum, with the theme “Exploring the Opportunities for University Education in Japan for Gifted Students”, presented study opportunities and scholarships in top universities in Japan considering various routes, one of which is a six-year secondary education curriculum. Ultimately, the forum sought to encourage the students to dream big and explore options and possibilities beyond the local universities towards rewarding and high-paying careers.
Kyoto University, Kyushu University, and Doshisha University were the key presenters in the activity. These schools pride themselves on being part of the Japanese government’s Project for Establishing Core Universities for Internationalization, also known as the G30 Program, along with 10 other universities in Japan.
The G30 Program is an initiative of Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) through Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS). In line with this project, the 13 selected universities that received a grant from the Japanese government are expected and anticipated to be the country’s principal internationalization centers by bringing in more foreign students, providing high quality level of education, and creating a learning environment suited to students both from Japan and from other countries including the Philippines. The project also highlights and promotes the offering of classes in English, improved system of admission for foreign students, promotion of international cooperation, and nurturing of students, teachers, and researchers to achieve worldwide competitiveness.
MITIS, being the lead organizer of the forum, believes that this is a good venue to introduce broader options for exceptional students by providing them with the information about admittance policies and criteria of prime universities overseas. With its K-12 curriculum, the school opens its enrollment for Grades 11 to 12 to students from local high schools as a six-year secondary curriculum is essential for admission to foreign universities such as those in Japan. MITIS also offers scholarship grants to poor yet deserving students as part of its social responsibility.
Top performing private and public schools particularly Science high schools within the National Capital Region attended the special event. With the comprehensive presentations delivered by the selected universities’ outstanding professors and representatives, this occasion marks the beginning of understanding and interaction among the academic communities of Philippine high schools and Japan universities towards students’ guaranteed success here and abroad.
More photos:
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| MITIS Assistant Director Mr. Andre Kwon introduces the objectives and targeted output of the activity |
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| Dr. Amelia Hizon of Kyushu University enlightens the students about the benefits of taking their undergraduate degrees in Japan, particularly in Kyushu |
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| Dr. David Uva of Doshisha University answers queries from students during the open forum |
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| PAREF South Ridge student asks a question about foreigners' way of life in Japan |
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| MITIS student clarifying other application and admission policies of the G30 universities |
