(Group photo at the Global Classroom with the nine Student Mobilization Philippines Inc.(StuMo) foreign student visitors, Alfonso T. Yuchengco College of Business(ATYCB) student campus tour guides, College of Arts and Sciences(CAS) faculty, and the Office for Corporate Partnerships staff.)
Last June 11, 2025, Mapúa Malayan Colleges Mindanao (Mapúa MCM) warmly welcomed nine American college students for an immersive cultural exchange experience, marking the beginning of a five-week program spearheaded by the Office for Corporate Partnerships – Center for International Programs(OCP – CIP) in partnership with StuMo. Held at the Mapúa MCM Global Classroom and Campus, the inaugural activity titled “Campus Tour & Learn About Filipino Culture” offered an insightful introduction to Filipino student life and heritage.
StuMo, a values-driven, faith-informed international organization with roots in the United States, aims to develop the character and leadership potential of college students. As a non-stock entity registered in the Philippines, StuMo empowers students to make lasting contributions to their communities and the broader global society. This summer, the organization launched a cultural exchange initiative in Davao City, running from June 11 to July 9, 2025, with participants hailing from Kansas State University, University of Missouri, Northwest Missouri State University, and the University of Nebraska.
(StuMo foreign student visitors exploring the Mapúa MCM campus.)
The campus tour at Mapúa MCM marked the students’ first encounter with Filipino academic culture, providing them with a unique glimpse into the lives of local college students. More than just a physical tour, the event encouraged cross-cultural dialogue, fostering greater understanding of the Philippines’ customs, values, and educational landscape.
Guided by faculty members from CAS—Jann Ardis Limdap, Christian Jarabe, and Keith Maceda—and supported by student facilitators from the ATYCB—Therese Rose Lao, Lovegail Quiño, Laura Raga, and Sealtiel Asoy—the visiting students engaged in interactive discussions and explored the dynamic learning environment at Mapúa MCM.
(StuMo foreign student visitors looking at the tally board of their scores for the game ”Guess Who? The Indigenous Peoples of Mindanao.”)
The event emphasized the institution’s commitment to fostering global citizenship and cultural literacy. This partnership aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) by promoting inclusive and equitable educational opportunities, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through meaningful collaboration with international organizations like StuMo.
As the program continues in the coming weeks, the students are set to participate in a range of cultural, social, and community-based activities across Davao City. The initiative stands as a testament to the power of education and intercultural partnership in shaping globally-minded future leaders.