BukSU, Malaysian Universities Launch Collaborative Online Learning Program

Bukidnon State University (BukSU) and three Malaysian universities formally launched the Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) program on October 24, 2025, to promote joint teaching, research, and cross-border learning.

The collaboration involved the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM), and Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA). The program aimed to foster intercultural understanding and shared academic experiences through virtual exchange among students and faculty.

During the launch, BukSU Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Hazel Jean M. Abejuela said international partnerships provide opportunities for both students and faculty to gain exposure to diverse academic environments. She said COIL served as a bridge for developing globally competent graduates while nurturing collaboration beyond geographical boundaries.

BukSU President Dr. Joy M. Mirasol expressed appreciation to the Malaysian partner institutions for their cooperation. She encouraged participants to make use of the opportunity to learn from different perspectives, adding that COIL aligns with BukSU’s goal of preparing graduates who are rooted locally but engaged globally.

Participants from BukSU included students from the Bachelor of Secondary Education major in English, Bachelor of Arts in English Language, Bachelor of Science in Community Development, and Bachelor of Science in Development Communication programs at the main campus, as well as Bachelor of Science in Business Administration students from the Talakag and Impasug-ong campuses.

One of the sessions featured a Virtual Campus Exchange, where participating universities presented short video tours of their campuses. The presentations offered participants a view of each institution’s academic settings, cultural identity, and campus life.

The program also included statements from faculty and student representatives who expressed interest in continuing academic exchanges and developing collaborative outputs throughout the duration of COIL.

Organizers said the kick-off activity demonstrated the intent of BukSU and its Malaysian counterparts to pursue long-term academic cooperation.

The COIL launch served as an initial phase of collaboration designed to connect faculty and students through online engagement, supporting BukSU’s ongoing effort to promote international education and intercultural learning. (Dr. Gem Aiah B. Blanco, Program Chair MAED-ELT)