Eight inbound pre-service teachers from Indonesia, Japan, and Thailand successfully concluded their month-long Pre-Service Student Teacher Exchange in Southeast Asia (SEA Teacher Project), held from February 2 to 28, 2026, at the Central Luzon State University College of Education.

The university welcomed two participants each from Universitas Ahmad Dahlan (UAD) and Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia (UPI) in Indonesia, Khon Kaen University (KKU) in Thailand, and University of Tsukuba (UT) in Japan. The exchange students conducted their teaching practicums at the CLSU Laboratory for Teaching and Learning – University Science High School (CLTL-USHS) under the College of Education.

The SEA Teacher Project continues to strengthen academic collaboration and intercultural exchange among partner universities in Southeast Asia, providing pre-service teachers with valuable international teaching experience while fostering meaningful global connections within the CLSU academic community.

At the start of their immersion, the pre-service teachers paid a courtesy call to Dr. Ravelina R. Velasco, Vice President for Academic Affairs, and Dr. Florante P. Ibarra, Dean of the College of Education, together with Asst. Prof. Joseph A. Villarama, Project Manager. They were later formally introduced to faculty members, staff, and university officials during the university flag-raising ceremony through the International Affairs Office, led by Dr. Parsons N. Hail, Director, and Dr. Emil F. Ubaldo, Chief of the Mobility and Intercultural Exchange Division.

An orientation program with the CLTL-USHS faculty formally commenced their internship. The activity was led by Dr. Ma. Catalina D. Adiz, Chair of CLTL, and Dr. Lexter R. Natividad, Unit In-Charge of CLTL-USHS, with the presence of Dr. Ibarra, Asst. Prof. Villarama, Dr. Hail (represented by Mr. Ariel Joseph R. Barza), Dr. Ubaldo, Dr. Ma. Ruby Hiyasmin M. Delos Santos, College Guidance Coordinator, Dr. Lalaine Ann F. Manual, College IAO Coordinator, along with the CLTL-USHS faculty and cooperating teachers.

During their internship, the pre-service teachers conducted observed demonstration teachings across various grade levels. They applied innovative teaching strategies, engaged with Filipino learners in authentic classroom settings, and exchanged educational practices from their home countries while gaining insight into the Philippine secondary education system. Ms. Siriporn Wongkhamsak of KKU described her experience, saying, “The highlight of my experience was the overwhelming warmth of the students and colleagues who made me feel like family.”

Several participants noted the students’ enthusiasm and engagement in lessons. Mr. Yuki Yoshihiro of UT shared, “Students filled all the blanks of assignments… it was satisfying to see they actually listened and understood.” Ms. Nopbphatson Boontoch of KKU also appreciated the natural teacher-student interactions, noting that it felt easier to build close and comfortable relationships. Ms. Siska Amelia Rahmat of UPI highlighted the active participation of students, calling the environment “light and engaging, yet intentional in prioritizing understanding over mere task completion.” Ms. Kharisa Zalfa Naila of UAD added, “Teaching at CLSU helped me grow not only as a future educator but also as a person.”

Cultural immersion was an equally significant part of the program. Participants visited Baler, Aurora, and paid a courtesy call to Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT) with University President Dr. Renato G. Reyes. They joined a Cultural Day featuring traditional Filipino games and cooking demonstrations of local dishes such as adobo and turon. Ms. Candrika Nur Oktavia of UAD reflected, “During my stay, I learned so much about tolerance and inner strength… CLSU felt warm, supportive, and comfortable — truly like a home.” Matoi Yamabe of UT fondly recalled, “I had a great time eating street food and making turon together… I absolutely love Filipino food.”

Many participants also highlighted the inclusive and welcoming environment. Mr. Muhammad Fathan Nabil of UPI shared, “Everyone from my fellow SEA Teachers and staff to mentors and students was so friendly and cooperative… making me feel truly at home throughout my stay.”

The SEA Teacher Project continues to strengthen academic collaboration and intercultural exchange among partner universities in Southeast Asia, providing pre-service teachers with valuable international teaching experience while fostering meaningful global connections within the CLSU academic community.