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Youth Take the Lead in Local

𝗖-𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴

𝗠-𝗶𝗻𝗱𝘀,

𝗖-𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗙𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝘀

𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝗹

𝗔𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗚𝗹𝗼𝗯𝗮𝗹 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁

The youth of today are not just leaders of tomorrow; they are changemakers of the present. With passion, vision, and courage, they are proving that the drive to transform communities and shape the future starts now.

August 12,2025~ This spirit was on full display as Central Mindanao Colleges (CMC) marked International Youth Day 2025 with the theme “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond: Strengthening Philippine–Japan Friendship for Sustainable Futures.” More than a commemoration, the event became living proof of CMC’s mission to empower students to turn global ideals into concrete local action.

Organized by the Center for International Affairs and Linkages (CIAL) and its student-led arm PRISM (Passionate and Responsive Individuals for Strategic Internationalization and Sustainable Development in Mindanao), in partnership with the Mindanao Children’s Library (MCL) Foundation,Inc., the celebration was made even more special with the visit of Japanese student volunteers who came to the Philippines for a meaningful learning exchange. This collaboration also reflects MCL’s ongoing partnership with CMC’s Social Work Department for social work immersions, community outreach, and shared advocacy for education and child welfare, further strengthening a relationship built on service, learning, and cultural understanding.

The Japanese guests, alongside MCL representatives, were warmly welcomed with a heartfelt campus tour. They visited the CMC Center for Learning Resource and Information and the Institute for Culture and the Arts, experiencing firsthand the richness of CMC’s academic resources and cultural heritage. The highlight was an open sharing session with administrators, faculty, and students, graced by CMC President Dr. Cynthia S. Asuncion and CIAL Coordinator Desiree Gayramara. The event also received strong institutional backing from the Institute for Support Services, Center for Student Success, and the Graduate School of Education, whose support ensured the program strengthened both cultural understanding and student development.

PRISM President Christopher D. Fernando reflected on the gathering’s significance: “This event is proof that young people in Mindanao can lead initiatives that make a real impact worldwide. Through partnerships like this, we are building not just cultural connections, but sustainable futures.”

PRISM Internal Vice President Zylene Rose D. Olbes also shared her personal take on the Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) experience with Japanese students: “The COIL experience opened my eyes to how technology can bridge cultures and ideas. Even without being physically in Japan, I felt the richness of its culture and the warmth of its people. It inspired me to think globally while acting locally.”

In true alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, the event advanced SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Every activity, from cultural immersion to academic dialogue, reflected the belief that peace, education, and partnerships are built through consistent, intentional action.

As Dr. Asuncion affirmed, “Internationalization is not just about crossing borders; it is about opening minds, building bridges, and creating shared futures. Our students are not just witnesses to change; they are the torchbearers of peace, understanding, and sustainable progress.”

From the heart of Mindanao, CMC’s youth are proving that local actions can shape global destinies, showing the world that meaningful change begins where passion meets purpose.

By Erolle Linus T. Miranda,

Center for Marketing and

Strategic Communications Officer

Publishers: News and Updates,There's Life @ CMC