Lowell M. Gabunilas, a Ph.D. Science Education student of the USC School of Education (SEd), together with Rita May P. Tagalog, Ed.D. and SEd Dean Rolando V. Obiedo, Ph.D., participated in the Twin College Envoy Program (TWINCLE) on February 7–13, 2024, in Chiba University, Japan. 

Organized by the Faculty of Education at Chiba University, the TWINCLE program aims to enrich ASEAN educators and students with Japanese-style science education by way of the Sakura Science and Physics Education through experiments and training programs. 

Aside from academic-related activities, participants were immersed in Japanese culture through exchanges with Chiba University students and visitations at the National Museum of Japanese History and old samurai houses in Sakura City. 

In addition, academics from various Asian and ASEAN universities were given the opportunity to present their research findings at the Annual Meeting in the Spring Institute of Asia and ASEAN Center for Educational Research. 

This year’s annual meeting focused on the theme “Accident cases in educational activities and their safety measures and system.” 

In line with this, Obiedo presented a paper on academic-related emergency cases and health risks and recommendations for enhancing emergency response and security, with assistance from the USC Health Services.

Students from partner universities were also given venues to present their research findings during the International Research Session. Dr. Tagalog and Dr. Obiedo served as chairs of parallel sessions during the oral presentations of the student participants. 

Meanwhile, Gabunilas presented his study on science teaching-related beliefs and recommendations on addressing some issues concerning teacher training. 

He also participated in the SDG workshops to promote inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities together with select students from Chiba University and Japanese high schools.