(Third IUS EAO Conference, Manila) – On September 25th the third IUS East Asia & Oceania Continental Conference began with the theme Salesian HEIs Today: Challenges and opportunities. The ongoing continental event is currently taking place at the Seminaryo ng Don Bosco in Manila, the Philipines where the General Coordinador of the IUS, Fr. Oscar Lozano along with authorities from Don Bosco Technical College Mandaluyong, Don Bosco College Canlubang, Don Bosco Technical College Cebu, and Don Bosco Technological Institute Boroko have are gathered to deliberate, and chart a dynamic course for the future of the Salesian communities.
The conference’s inaugural day began with a solemn Mass presided over by Fr. Gerardo Martin, SDB, the Provincial of Don Bosco Philippines North (FIN). In his heartfelt address, he extended a warm welcome to all participants, setting the tone for a day of insightful discussions. Fr Oscar Lozano, SDB during the first session presented a report on Salesian Institutions of Higher Education on a global scale which gave an overview of the evolving landscape of the IUS institutions in education.
The second session delved into the modern topic of “The Challenges of AI in Higher Education” delivered by Rev. Paul Aldrin Dungca, SDB from Don Bosco College Canlubang, and Dr. Michelle Banawan from the Asian Institute of Management with the expert moderation of Mr. Matulac.
To conclude the last session Fr. Joel Camaya, SDB, and Fr. Rooney John Undar, SDB, provided a detailed review of the recent IUS documents that are set to guide the future of Salesian higher education. These documents, which include “Orientations for Campus Ministry in Salesian Institutions of Higher Education,” “Policies for the Salesian Presence in Higher Education 2022-2026,” and “Common Program 6 (2022-2026),” are vital to fostering synergy and excellence within the Salesian communities.
The coordination of this enlightening event was under the direction of Fr. Joel Camaya.
