On September 10, 2024, Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU) Cavite had the privilege of hosting Mr. Alex Urrea, the visionary founder and CEO of Eduscape USA, along with Ms. Lanie Gordon, VP of Operations for Eduscape. Their visit aimed to promote micro-credentials and certification programs for students in education and psychology under the College of Liberal Arts and Education (CLAED), headed by Dean Dr. Maridette Joyce Maranan.

Accompanying the Eduscape USA team were Mr. Dennis Franco Layug, CEO of East West International Educational Specialist Inc. (EWIES), and his General Manager, Ms. Aimee De Guzman. EWIES, a valued partner of LPU Cavite, plays a crucial role in providing micro-credentials and certification programs alongside Eduscape.

The esteemed guests were welcomed by Ms. Mia Aiko Pilapil, Head of Internationalization and External Affairs, and Dr. Elmer C. Matel, Director of Lifelong Learning and Continuing Education, representing the Office of Dr. Mark Irvin C. Celis, Vice President for Academic Affairs. Their presence underscored the university’s commitment to embracing new learning paradigms that empower both students and educators.

The highlight of the visit was a seminar designed to showcase the potential of micro-credentials and certifications in enhancing the educational experience of LPU Cavite students. Mr. Urrea, along with Ms. Gordon and Mr. Layug, led an interactive discussion with faculty members and students. They introduced the My Eduscape online platform, which offers over 300 micro-credentials. The platform enables students, faculty, and senior leaders to access a wide range of online materials and earn electronic badges upon completing programs, providing tangible proof of their achievements.

This seminar served as a significant opportunity for Education and Psychology students to explore cutting-edge educational tools that not only strengthen their credentials but also position them as competitive and skilled professionals in the field. The faculty’s participation further emphasized LPU Cavite’s commitment to supporting the continuous professional development of its educators.

Following the seminar, a milestone moment for LPU Cavite took place as the visitors and university officials convened in the Executive Office for the signing of a Tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between LPU Cavite, EWIES, and Eduscape USA. The MOU formalizes the collaboration between the three institutions, reinforcing their shared goal of expanding access to innovative learning solutions.

Present at the signing were Dr. Maria Teresa O. Pilapil, VP for Administration; Dr. Mark Irvin C. Celis, VP for Academic Affairs; Mr. Alex Urrea, Founder and CEO of Eduscape USA; and Mr. Dennis Franco Layug, CEO of EWIES. The agreement signifies a strengthened partnership and sets the stage for future collaborative initiatives aimed at broadening the scope of learning opportunities for LPU Cavite students and faculty.

This visit and partnership mark an exciting chapter for LPU Cavite, as the university continues to lead the way in embracing lifelong learning through micro-credentials and certifications. With the support of Eduscape USA and EWIES, LPU Cavite students and faculty now have access to a wealth of resources that can enhance their educational journey, ensuring that they remain competitive in an ever-evolving academic and professional landscape. – Dr. Elmer Matel