Building bridges for globally engaged education through meaningful collaboration and international exposure
Cebu Institute of Technology – University (CIT University) proudly becomes the first Philippine partner of Université de Caen Normandie, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two institutions in the last week of June 2025. The MOU was signed by CIT University President, Engr. Bernard Nicolas E. Villamor, and Dr. Christophe Rochais, Vice President for Research and Innovation of Université de Caen Normandie—marking a significant milestone in CIT University’s commitment to creating global pathways for learning, collaboration, and innovation.
The visit to Caen, Normandy was more than ceremonial. It was a purposeful journey of discovery, connection, and future planning—led by CIT University’s Director of External Affairs, Dr. Larmie S. Feliscuzo, along with academic leaders from the College of Engineering and Architecture, College of Management, Business, and Accountancy, College of Arts, Sciences, and Education, and the NEXUSS Office (Network of EXternal University Support Services).
Learning Across Cultures, Planning Across Borders
Hosted warmly by Université de Caen Normandie’s development and academic teams, the CIT University delegation engaged in strategic dialogues with representatives from various departments including ESIX (Engineering), IAE (Business), INSPE (Teacher Education), FFL (French as a Foreign Language), and the Psychology department. These sessions opened discussions on a wide range of collaborative possibilities: student and faculty exchanges, joint research projects, co-hosted seminars, virtual courses, and internships in both countries.
The meeting wasn’t simply about institutional alignment—it was also deeply personal. Former interns from Caen, Mado and Elisa, who previously experienced life at CIT University, returned the favor by showing the delegation around their hometown. What began as a student internship in Cebu has blossomed into a sustainable academic and cultural relationship, reflecting CIT University’s capacity to nurture meaningful global partnerships.
Ms. Stéphanie Gouttry, Chargée de développement international at Université de Caen Normandie, shared her enthusiasm for the visit and noted the strong potential for long-term collaboration including “student and teacher exchanges, research projects, virtual courses and seminars, and internship opportunities.”
From Caen to Paris: Global Citizenship in Action
Beyond academic engagements, the CIT University team traveled to Paris to connect with France-based CIT alumni. These encounters offered powerful proof that CIT graduates are thriving internationally—professionally, culturally, and socially. Whether working in engineering, business, or education, the alumni stories echoed a common theme: CIT University prepares globally competitive, values-driven professionals ready to contribute meaningfully wherever they go.
“It was humbling and inspiring to hear our alumni speak about their journeys,” shared Dr. Feliscuzo. “Their stories affirm what we believe—that our students have their place in the global arena.”
This was also a journey of cultural enrichment. Visits to iconic sites like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Palace of Versailles—guided by a CIT alumna—offered the team a vivid glimpse into France’s rich heritage and the joy of shared learning beyond the classroom.
A Vision of the Future
The visit highlights CIT University’s openness to co-creating meaningful, sustainable global linkages. The university’s structured approach to internationalization—anchored in academic excellence, cultural respect, and shared values—makes it an ideal institution to work with in developing joint programs, mobility opportunities, and innovation hubs.
CIT University demonstrates a powerful promise to future students: that education is not confined to the four walls of a classroom. It is a launchpad for international growth, cross-cultural understanding, and life-changing experiences.
This partnership journey represents what CIT University stands for—purposeful connections, world-ready graduates, and a future that goes beyond borders.
Explore. Connect. Grow.
At CIT University, the world is your classroom.