Integrated School - USLS

The AFS (American Field Service)- USLS Bacolod Chapter gathered 20 of its volunteers, exchange students and exchange program returnees for the First Pep for Intercultural Learning (ICL) Workshop held at Room 10 last Oct. 29.

AFS is a non-government organization that provides intercultural opportunities through exchange programs abroad for the youth.

Intercultural learning aims to develop exchange students’ and volunteers’ intercultural competence in preparation for future exchange programs as well as intercultural activities.

“The moment you spend time with someone with a different culture, you’ll have intercultural learning,” said AFS – USLS Bacolod Chapter hosting coordinator Larry Franco.

Franco added that the chapter was the first among seven other AFS chapters nationwide to conduct the ICL. 

The pilot group is composed also of Japan - East Asia Network of Exchange for Students and Youths (JENESYS) scholars who also share the same experiences.

“This workshop opened new cultures and educated the young minds. It is very much useful to participants, volunteers and host families,” said Kirby Tabuga, a 2008 JENESYS scholar sent to Japan and currently in charge of the Volunteer Development Program of the chapter.

All materials shared in the workshop were taken from the Intercultural Learning Workshop of AFS Philippines at Pasay City last September 21-23 attended by Sheila Villares and Franco of the Center for External Relations.

Franco is currently tapping seven local educational institutions in Bacolod to partner with AFS.