Biliran Province State University’s Spain-based partner, Fundación Hakuna, hosted a half-day Spanish language lesson with students from the School of Management and Entrepreneurship (SME) on August 12 at the university gymnasium.

Students from the first to third years of the Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM) and Bachelor of Tourism Management (BSTM) programs, along with SME faculty members, actively participated in the activity. 

Fundación Hakuna brought a wealth of experience and expertise in the Spanish language, incorporating Spanish songs and dance into the lesson to create a more interactive experience for the participants.

Moreover, it is a Spanish nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering cultural exchange and providing humanitarian aid, especially in underserved communities. The organization works closely with local partners around the world to empower marginalized groups through education, community building, and cultural immersion.

The activity was part of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between BiPSU and Fundación Hakuna, which focuses on developing and promoting international understanding and goodwill between the two institutions.

According to the MOU, the two institutions will collaborate on various programs, including the exchange of students, faculty, and researchers; the sharing of academic information and publications; research activities; and joint cultural and community immersion projects.

In her speech, Dr. Mafel Piol, Dean of SME, emphasized the importance and values of the collaboration between BiPSU and Fundación Hakuna, which offer new perspectives to both cultures.

“Culture and language go hand-in-hand, and by embracing both, you’re opening the doors to new perspectives,” Dr. Piol said. “We need to keep exploring, we need to keep learning, and we need to celebrate this vibrant culture in our journey.”

Meanwhile, Ricca Serat, a second-year Bachelor of Hospitality and Management student, expressed her enjoyment and the knowledge she gained through engaging with the Spanish lesson. “The initiative to include Spanish lessons for SME students also fosters an in-depth understanding of Spanish culture and tradition.”

In an interview, Dr. Piol revealed that SME has been offering a Spanish language course for first-year BSTM and BSHM students since 2005.

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