NWU Holds First-Ever Internationalization Week to Strengthen ASEAN Academic Ties
NWU Internationalization Officer Northwestern University (NWU) officially launched its first-ever Internationalization (IZN) Week on June 13–14, 2025, marking a significant step in its commitment to global academic collaboration. Spearheaded by the Internationalization Office under the Research, Community, Social Development, and Internationalization (RCSDI) Division, the two-day event carried the theme “Strengthening ASEAN Academic Collaboration.”
A delegation of eight faculty members from Universitas Persada Indonesia Y.A.I. (UPI Y.A.I.) in Jakarta, Indonesia, joined the celebration. The group included key officials such as Dr. Sularso Budilaksono, Director for Research and Community Service, and Dr. Choirul Anwar, Director of the International Office.
They were welcomed on June 12 by NWU’s Executive Committee and RCSDI officials. That same day, Internationalization Officer Ms. Juliane Navarro and Cultural Affairs Officer Mr. Spider Rodas led the guests on a cultural tour across Ilocos Norte, highlighting local heritage sites and underscoring shared cultural elements between Ilokanos and Indonesians.
The highlight of the celebration was held on June 13 at the NWU International House Function Hall, gathering representatives from eight higher education institutions in Region I: Saint Louis College of San Fernando, Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation, University of Luzon, Urdaneta City University, Lorma Colleges, Mariano Marcos State University, Panpacific University, and University of Northern Philippines.
In her keynote address, CHED Regional Director IV Dr. Christine N. Ferrer praised NWU for taking the lead in building regional internationalization networks. “Our regional efforts for internationalization are not built by one, but by many,” she said.
One of the event’s milestones was the signing of Memoranda of Agreement (MOA) between UPI Y.A.I. and the eight participating institutions, paving the way for future joint academic programs and research partnerships.
Demonstrating NWU’s commitment to global excellence, the afternoon session showcased the internationalization initiatives of various academic units, each aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This was followed by the Global Lecture Series, featuring esteemed speakers who shared valuable perspectives on education and social innovation. Mr. Jezreel Larry R. Caunca, Futures Education Specialist at NWU, discussed the integration of Futures Thinking into the university’s curriculum, aimed at fostering innovation and forward-thinking among students. Prof. Dr. Eric S. Parilla, NWU’s Vice President for Research, Community, Social Development, and Internationalization, presented his research on the factors influencing business students to pursue social entrepreneurship in the Philippines. Dr. Choirul Anwar, Director of the International Office at UPI Y.A.I., provided insights into Indonesia’s localized approach to social entrepreneurship, emphasizing inclusive practices that empower women and the deaf community. The session concluded with an open forum, encouraging meaningful dialogue and laying the groundwork for future inter-institutional collaborations.
On June 14, NWU hosted a Community Day in Metro Gabu, Laoag City, led by the Center for Community and Social Development in coordination with various academic colleges. Activities included medical and dental services, cooking demos, defense simulations, ocean cleanups, and literacy classes.
The Indonesian delegates took an active part in the outreach program, gaining firsthand insight into NWU’s approach to community engagement. Their participation highlighted the university’s firm belief that internationalization must go beyond academic exchange—it must also embrace service and solidarity with local communities.
Through IZN Week, NWU reaffirmed its role as a regional leader in internationalization efforts. Its partnership with UPI Y.A.I. reflects a long-standing relationship built on shared educational goals and cultural understanding. As NWU continues to pursue excellence in transnational education, it remains committed to building a globally engaged academic community.
