CLSU student learns multiculturalism and social innovation at int’l student summit in Thailand
March 25, 2024
Michelle Barrera Tumali, a student from the College of Veterinary Science and Medicine (CVSM) at Central Luzon State University (CLSU), participated in a two-week international study program as one of the Filipino delegates in the “ASEAN in Today’s World (AsTW) 2024” from March 11-21.
The program offers two enriching courses – Multiculturalism in Asia and Social Innovator Incubation hosted by Mahidol University in Thailand, and co-organized by Kyushu University in Japan with support from the ASEAN Secretariat.
This year’s cohort comprised 43 students representing 15 universities from six countries, forming a diverse and dynamic group of delegates.
Tumali’s participation in the program was facilitated through the Young ASEAN Scholarship granted by Kyushu University.
As part of the Multiculturalism course, Tumali explored an aspect of multiculturalism in her final paper and presentation titled “INKscapes of Tattoo Culture: Philippines’ Batek and Indonesia’s Mentawai,” examining historical, cultural, and societal perspectives.
Addressing the critical need for access to basic healthcare in rural areas, her team developed a social business project for the Social Innovator Incubation course entitled “OPTICONNECT: Clearer Vision for a Brighter Future,” emphasizing the impact of poor eyesight and proposing mobile ophthalmic clinics and services to enhance the quality of life for impoverished families.
Furthermore, she gained a deeper appreciation for the rich traditions and heritage of Thailand through cultural immersion activities, including Thai Herbal Inhaler Class, Thai Traditional Dance Class, Thai Traditional Dessert Making Class, and a Cultural Trip to Ayutthaya Province.
Reflecting on her AsTW 2024 journey, she emphasized the profound impact of shared experiences and collaborative efforts in forging meaningful relationships and shaping a more inclusive and sustainable future for all.
As she returned home, she believed that they had emerged not only as participants but also as ambassadors of cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.
The program offers two enriching courses – Multiculturalism in Asia and Social Innovator Incubation hosted by Mahidol University in Thailand, and co-organized by Kyushu University in Japan with support from the ASEAN Secretariat.
This year’s cohort comprised 43 students representing 15 universities from six countries, forming a diverse and dynamic group of delegates.
Tumali’s participation in the program was facilitated through the Young ASEAN Scholarship granted by Kyushu University.
As part of the Multiculturalism course, Tumali explored an aspect of multiculturalism in her final paper and presentation titled “INKscapes of Tattoo Culture: Philippines’ Batek and Indonesia’s Mentawai,” examining historical, cultural, and societal perspectives.
Addressing the critical need for access to basic healthcare in rural areas, her team developed a social business project for the Social Innovator Incubation course entitled “OPTICONNECT: Clearer Vision for a Brighter Future,” emphasizing the impact of poor eyesight and proposing mobile ophthalmic clinics and services to enhance the quality of life for impoverished families.
Furthermore, she gained a deeper appreciation for the rich traditions and heritage of Thailand through cultural immersion activities, including Thai Herbal Inhaler Class, Thai Traditional Dance Class, Thai Traditional Dessert Making Class, and a Cultural Trip to Ayutthaya Province.
Reflecting on her AsTW 2024 journey, she emphasized the profound impact of shared experiences and collaborative efforts in forging meaningful relationships and shaping a more inclusive and sustainable future for all.
As she returned home, she believed that they had emerged not only as participants but also as ambassadors of cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.
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