18/06/2026
Mirai no Manabi x Bayanihan para sa Kinabukasan x Learning for the Future
The UP Open University formally launched its Continuing Education Program (CEPs) short courses on Japanese Language Teaching on 18 June 2026 at the AVR, UPOU Headquarters in Los Baños, Laguna, with live participation online.
This milestone event, led by the Faculty of Education in partnership with The Japan Foundation, Manila and The Japan Foundation, brought together educators and partners in advancing accessible, meaningful, and culturally grounded language education. The program reflects a shared commitment to strengthening Japanese language teaching in the Philippines while deepening cross-cultural understanding.
UPOU Chancellor Joane Serrano highlighted how education serves as a bridge that connects people and cultures beyond borders, emphasizing that learning should reach learners where they are. She underscored that Japanese language education goes beyond grammar and vocabulary; it is also about culture, relationships, and understanding different ways of life.
The Japan Foundation President Kurosawa Shinya, in his message, marked the significance of the initiative in the context of 70 years of Philippines–Japan friendship, emphasizing sustainability, collaboration, and shared expertise in language education.
Meanwhile, academic discussions enriched the program with insights on second language teaching and Japanese language education, highlighting how language learning expands perspectives, preserves culture, and deepens understanding of diverse ways of being.
The launch of these short courses marks both new learning opportunities and a stronger community dedicated to language, culture, and global connection through education.
Watch the recoded live here: https://www.facebook.com/UPOpenUniversityNetworks/videos/1365103198910804