BRIDGING HORIZONS: Strengthening Social Work Education through Educational Tour

On February 28, 2026, the College of Social Work of Cordillera Career Development College (CCDC) warmly welcomed the students and faculty members from Universidad de Sta. Isabel de Naga, Inc. for a meaningful and memorable academic engagement under the LeD (Learners Development) initiative entitled “Bridging Horizons: Educational Tour of Universidad de Sta. Isabel de Naga, Inc. to CCDC’s Social Work Program.”

Held at the CCDC campus in Buyagan, Poblacion, La Trinidad, Benguet, the activity gathered 64 Social Work students from CCDC and 93 visiting students, accompanied by their faculty members—Dr. Nathalie C. Ranin, Edlyn M. Batutay, and Laila C. Romero. The delegation was formally received by Ms. Melody Calpase-Ducat, Dean of the College of Social Work, and Ms. Kimberlyn Valdez, Social Work Program Coordinator, who facilitated the academic exchange and institutional engagement.

Anchored on the philosophy of CCDC that “the student is the center of the educational process,” the activity reflects the institution’s strong commitment to providing quality, inclusive, and culturally responsive education. It also reinforces the College’s vision of becoming “a center of quality education for culturally diverse and global learners,” and its mission of developing socially responsible and globally competent professionals.

More than a formal academic visit, the educational tour evolved into a dynamic platform for connection, collaboration, and cultural exchange. Through guided campus tours, structured program presentations, and interactive discussions, the visiting students were introduced to the Social Work program, institutional practices, and student life at CCDC. These engagements enabled participants to contextualize classroom theories within real-world academic settings and deepen their understanding of social work education.

The day was marked by genuine interactions and shared experiences, as students and faculty members from both institutions exchanged insights about their academic journeys, fieldwork experiences, and aspirations as future social workers. The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm, laughter, and meaningful conversations, highlighting the importance of peer learning and professional solidarity.

A notable highlight of the visit was the guided campus tour, where guests were introduced to various offices, classrooms, and learning spaces within CCDC. Another key feature of the activity was the cultural exchange, during which students shared local dialects and expressions, fostering mutual appreciation of linguistic diversity. Adding to the experience, the visiting delegation enthusiastically participated in the community dance, the “Grand March and Tayaw,” embracing local traditions and celebrating unity through movement and shared cultural expression.

This immersive experience underscored that social work education extends beyond the classroom. It is rooted in building relationships, appreciating diversity, and cultivating empathy – core values essential to the profession. The activity also promoted equity, care ethics, and community engagement, allowing students to witness how these principles are embodied in different institutional contexts.

Furthermore, the LeD initiative contributes significantly to quality assurance and accreditation efforts, as it documents innovative co-curricular practices that enhance student learning outcomes. It demonstrates CCDC’s proactive approach in integrating experiential learning opportunities aligned with national and global standards in social work education.

Ultimately, “Bridging Horizons” stands as a testament to the power of academic collaboration and shared purpose. The visit not only enriched the participants’ academic and cultural perspectives but also strengthened the bond between two institutions committed to nurturing competent, compassionate, and service-driven social workers.

Indeed, the experience served as a meaningful reminder that the heart of social work lies in connection, cultural understanding, and collective commitment to service—values that transcend classrooms and unite future professionals in their shared mission to make a difference.