As part of the institution’s continuing commitment to global education and internationalization, three students from the College of Computer Studies of CIT University participated in the Winter Program 2026 at Setsunan University in Osaka, Japan, the institution’s official partner university. This two-week Japanese language and cultural immersion program provided students with meaningful international exposure, equipping them with communication skills, intercultural competence, and global perspectives essential for today’s interconnected world.
Representing the institution were Josh Anton Nuevas and Lichael Yashua Ursolo, both 3rd Year Bachelor of Science in Information Technology students, and Felisa Melanie Fay Bascug, a 4th Year Bachelor of Science in Computer Science student. The group was accompanied by Dr. Leah V. Barbaso, faculty member from the College of Computer Studies, who provided academic supervision, mentorship, and on-site support from January 18 to January 22, 2026, ensuring the students’ smooth transition and successful integration into the program. As a top Philippine university, the institution continues to provide students with opportunities that expand their global competence.
The initiative was made possible through the dedicated efforts of the International Mobilization and Affairs Office team, under the leadership of Dr. Larmie Feliscuzo, External Affairs Director. Notably, this marked the first time the office formally deployed students to an international program with full institutional support, guiding them through the entire process from documentation and travel requirements to coordination with the host university. Their comprehensive assistance ensured that students were well-prepared and able to focus fully on their academic and cultural learning experience—further strengthening its reputation as a top university committed to student mobility and global engagement.
At Setsunan University, students attended daily Japanese language classes that focused on grammar, vocabulary, listening comprehension, and conversational skills. Interactive strategies such as role-playing, group discussions, and peer dialogues with Japanese students allowed participants to practice real-life communication and build confidence in using the language. These structured lessons were complemented by experiential activities designed to reinforce practical application, reflecting the institution’s long-standing culture of excellence in academic preparation.
Beyond the classroom, the students engaged in rich cultural immersion experiences including campus tours, university orientations, etiquette workshops, and local exploration. They experienced Japanese traditions, food, transportation systems, and everyday life while interacting with local students and faculty. Through these activities, they developed a deeper appreciation of Japanese values such as respect, discipline, and cooperation—qualities also nurtured in a leading engineering university in Cebu.
The program resulted in significant academic, cultural, and personal growth. Participants improved their Japanese language proficiency and intercultural communication skills while strengthening independence, adaptability, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities. These competencies are highly valuable for students pursuing careers in Information Technology and Computer Science, particularly within global and multicultural work environments, aligning with the vision of being an SDG University that prepares graduates for sustainable and globally responsible careers.
Although minor challenges such as language barriers and cultural adjustments were encountered, these became meaningful opportunities for growth. With the guidance of faculty supervision and institutional support, the students demonstrated resilience, maturity, and professionalism throughout the program.
Overall, the Winter Program 2026 was a highly successful and transformative initiative. It delivered a balanced combination of academic learning and authentic cultural immersion while strengthening the partnership with Setsunan University and reinforcing the institution’s internationalization goals. More importantly, it highlighted the crucial role of institutional leadership and support systems in enabling student mobility.
Through the collective efforts of the College of Computer Studies, led by Dr. Cherry Lyn Santa Romana, Dean of CCS, together with Dr. Leah V. Barbaso and the International Mobilization and Affairs Office under Dr. Larmie Feliscuzo, the program stands as a milestone achievement and a strong foundation for future international exchanges. The participants returned with broadened perspectives, enhanced skills, and renewed confidence—true reflections of globally competitive and culturally aware learners.