The University of the Philippines (UP) launched its flagship program, UP Ventures for Innovative Transnational Academia (UP VINTA), for the fourth time on 16 June 2024, coinciding with a joint celebration by the Manila Economic Cultural Office (MECO) in New Taipei City, Taiwan, for Philippine Independence Day and Migrant Workers Day.
The pioneering program is dedicated to overcoming barriers in education and adopting an innovative and inclusive approach to learning, providing boundless access to knowledge. This visionary initiative caters to Filipinos pursuing education, whether they are in the Philippines or overseas.
In coordination with the Migrant Workers’ Office (MWO) in Taiwan, MECO invited UP to the joint celebration to share information about the UP VINTA project with an estimated five thousand (5,000) overseas Filipino participants.
The 126th joint Philippine Independence Day and Migrant Workers Day celebration began with the assembly and entrance of basketball teams and cheer dance groups. MWO Director Atty. Cesar L. Chavez, Jr., administered an oath of sportsmanship. VIP guests were introduced, followed by the national anthems of both countries. MECO Chairman and Resident Representative Silvestre H. Bello III and Mayor Hou Yu-Ih of New Taipei City delivered insightful messages before the ceremonial show of Philippines-Taiwan Friendship Exchanges and photo opts on stage. The celebration continued with welcoming remarks from the Director of the Department of Migrant Workers and with messages from different respected delegates and guests.
In the latter part of the event, Dr. Augustus C. Resurreccion, Vice President for Administration of the UP system, introduced the UP VINTA program which highlights online quality education catering to our OFWs and their families.
The celebration continued with various activities, including a basketball game, cheer dancing competition, band performance, raffle draws, and a celebrity performance. The program concluded with photo opportunities, marking the end of the event.
The UP VINTA launch in Taiwan represents another significant milestone for the initiative as it expands its influence across various parts of Asia. This event emphasizes inclusivity, quality, innovation, and public service, while utilizing collaboration to underscore UP’s dedication to borderless education.
Written by Alexil Cheska T. Fajardo ♦ Edited by Margaret Jarmin-Suarez and Yasele Irene Angela Yambao ♦ Photo by Luisa A. Gelisan
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