SSU wraps up pioneering int'l summer camp

CATBALOGAN CITY, Philippines — Samar State University ended the first leg of the two-week 2024 International Summer Camp with Universitas Brawijaya, Indonesia, and Tra Vinh University, Vietnam on Friday at the SSU Gymnasium.

Following the arrival on August 11, said camp kicked off with a courtesy call with University President Dr. Redentor Palencia, a talk show, and a campus tour at the main campus the next day, August 12.

Exploring some of Samar’s cuisine, tourist spots, and culture, the second and third days of the summer camp featured tours to Sohoton Cave in Basey and Lulugayan Falls in Calbiga consecutively.

Moreover, activities on the fourth day included a tour of the SSU-Paranas Campus, and a Kuratsa dance workshop at the main campus.

Wrapping up the six-day camp hosting of SSU, a city tour and a courtesy call with the city mayor took place, followed by a culminating activity highlighting cultural dances of Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines.

Representing Tra Vinh University, Vietnam, Mai Ngoc Duyen expressed their gratitude, saying, “Thank you to Samar State University for our participation in this year’s International Summer Camp. And with our performance tonight, we would like to bring Vietnam, as well as Tra Vinh [University], closer to you. I believe tonight is not a farewell, it’s just a goodbye and see you soon.”

In addition, Ranjiv A.A. Sihombing, representing Universitas Brawijaya, Indonesia, emphasized the significance of the event in building connections across borders. “This gathering represented not just a meeting of minds, but a coming together of diverse cultures, perspectives, and ideas. We were united here by a common purpose: to learn, to grow, and to build friendships that transcend borders… This camp was more than just an event; it was a platform for exchange, collaboration, and the forging of bonds that will last long after we leave this place,” Sihombing said.

The international students will set foot in Calbayog City from August 17-24, as the host of the second leg of the camp will be Northwest Samar State University.

This camp hosting was headed by SSU International Affairs Director Dr. Elmer Irene and International Student Exchange Coordinator Pedro Cabrales.