Written by Rachel Grace A. Liclican
The University of Baguio’s School of International Hospitality and Tourism Management (UB-SIHTM) warmly welcomed representatives from the Japan Foundation for a meaningful dialogue focused on strengthening Japanese language education on May 16, 2025.
Representing the Japan Foundation were Assistant Director Ms. Yuiko Shigematsu, Adviser on Japanese Language Education Ms. Junko Atagi, and Program Coordinators Mr. Norman Molo and Mr. Eron Olegario.
During the visit, Ms. Joan Florague, faculty member and Nihongo teacher, shared with the Japan Foundation team the school’s ongoing programs and initiatives to strengthen Japanese language education. It is worth noting that SIHTM offers Nihongo as one of its Foreign Language courses, integrated into the curriculum of its Hospitality and Tourism Management programs.
In turn, the Japan Foundation presented its various programs for students and skilled workers. They also introduced several learning resources available for students and teachers, including self-study tools such as the Irodori Japanese Online Course.
Following the presentations, a meaningful dialogue took place between the Japan Foundation representatives and SIHTM faculty members. The discussion focused on suggestions and recommendations for advancing Japanese language education within the institution.
Also present during the dialogue were Mr. Chris Evan Amansec, faculty member and Nihongo teacher; Ms. Mary Joy Limpin, Program Chair for AACACO; and Ms. Joanna Marie Villavicencio, Program Chair for BSTM-IT.
The initiative aimed to build Quality Education (SDG 4) for the university. The engagement underscored the institution’s commitment to fostering cultural understanding among students and reinforced its dedication to global academic excellence.
