Today marks an inspiring milestone for Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc. (HCCCI) as it officially launches ED TECH FUSION: Philippines and Venezuela Connect, an innovative Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) initiative under the Bayluhanay COIL Program. Running from June 4 to June 28, 2024, the program unites students and faculty from the Philippines and Venezuela with a shared mission: to co-create knowledge, develop sustainable technology-aided educational tools, and deepen cultural understanding through international collaboration.

This partnership bridges four Philippine higher education institutions—Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc., San Pedro College-Davao, Central Mindanao Colleges-Kidapawan City, and Negros Oriental State University—with Universidad Católica Andrés Bello (UCAB) in Venezuela. The diversity of participants highlights the program’s core objective: to cultivate inclusive and meaningful learning opportunities that transcend geographical and cultural boundaries.

A central goal of the initiative is the creation of a free, open-access virtual library, where students collaboratively design a sustainable educational tool using technology. This digital resource is intended to serve not only the current cohort but also future learners and educators, embodying a long-term vision of equitable access to knowledge and fostering digital literacy. By producing outputs that are reusable and accessible, the program advances both educational sustainability and global inclusivity.

The kickoff event brought together a total of 168 students from all participating institutions. Students engaged in virtual breakout sessions, forming culturally diverse teams and laying the foundation for collaborative research and creative project development. These early interactions set the tone for a program that emphasizes dialogue, respect for cultural differences, and shared problem-solving.

ED TECH FUSION reflects HCCCI’s commitment to producing globally competitive professionals who are technologically competent, culturally aware, and adaptable to the evolving demands of the workforce. The program aligns strongly with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, by promoting access to innovative and inclusive learning experiences; SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, through the creation of technology-based educational solutions; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, by fostering strong international academic collaboration.

HCCCI’s Innovation Laboratory (iLAB) provides the technological backbone for the program, equipping students with the resources, guidance, and support necessary to bring their ideas to life. Under the mentorship of faculty from both nations, participants navigate virtual collaboration tools, engage in problem-solving exercises, and experiment with digital designs that reflect the values and cultures of both countries.

Over the next four weeks, students and faculty will engage in cultural storytelling, virtual immersion activities, and collaborative research projects focused on educational technology. Through this process, they will enhance critical global competencies, including intercultural communication, teamwork, digital literacy, and adaptive leadership. More than just producing a digital tool, participants are learning how to work across differences in culture, values, and professional practices, preparing them for an ever-changing, interconnected workforce.

ED TECH FUSION champions global citizenship by demonstrating that education is most powerful when it transcends borders and unites diverse perspectives. By collaborating across time zones and experiences, students discover that innovation, empathy, and creativity flourish when people from different backgrounds contribute to a shared purpose.

As this transformative program unfolds, HCCCI looks forward to celebrating the creativity, collaboration, and dedication of all participants. Together, they are building not only sustainable educational tools but also a model of international cooperation and global engagement that will leave a lasting impact on learners and communities for years to come.

Stay tuned for updates as ED TECH FUSION: Philippines and Venezuela Connect continues to cultivate a new generation of globally engaged, digitally empowered, and culturally competent learners.