Owing to its continuing pursuit of international recognition and global competence, Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) has initiated steps to expand academic and professional immersion programs with a strengthened partnership with Outbound Education and Internships, Inc. (OBEI)—a reputable agency facilitating international training in multicultural settings.

On July 15, a courtesy meeting was held at the Office of the President, where BiPSU officials met with OBEI representatives to explore broader collaboration opportunities across the university’s academic units.

This activity shows a significant step forward in BiPSU’s internationalization agenda, following the initial agreement forged between OBEI and the School of Management and Entrepreneurship (SME) in November 2024.

That earlier partnership laid the groundwork for ongoing preparations to deploy 20 student-interns from SME’s Hospitality Management and Tourism Management programs to internship sites in the United States of America (USA) and Thailand, which initiatives are being processed in alignment with Commission on Higher Education (CHED) guidelines, and deployments scheduled between September and October for a six-month on-the-job training (OJT).

"BiPSU is proud to partner with OBEI as we bring our internationalization efforts into reality, empowering our students and faculty through meaningful global experiences,” said Prof. Victor Cañezo Jr., university president.

In recognition of international immersion's role in shaping future-ready graduates, a collective interest in expanding these programs was expressed by Dr. Jason V. Ang of the School of Teacher Education (STED), Dr. Chona B. Sabinay of the School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS), Dr. Jovy Dia R. Saniel of the School of Nursing and Health Studies (SNHS), and Dr. Christopher R. Vicera of the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS).

During the visit, OBEI Managing Director Mary Grace Batocabe and Program Director for Eastern Visayas John Jerick Postrero presented its flagship Student Internship Abroad Program (SIAP), which provides qualified students with world-class training in global partner institutions.

They also introduced faculty immersion programs designed to enhance teaching practices through exposure to international education systems and industry standards.

At present, BiPSU stands as the fourth university weaver in Eastern Visayas to collaborate with OBEI for outbound academic mobility, joining the league of Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU), Eastern Samar State University (ESSU), and Leyte Normal University (LNU).

With its growing portfolio of international partnerships, BiPSU continues to elevate its commitment to quality education, cultural exchange, and global career readiness for both students and educators.

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[This article aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) No. 4: Quality Education, No. 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and No. 17: Partnerships for the Goals.]