AU Delegates Attend the TRAC 3rd International Convention on Student Affairs and Services

Eight delegates coming from the seven campuses of Arellano University attended the three-day Transforming Advocates and Champions (TRAC) 3rd International Convention on Student Affairs and Services held at the Quezon Hall of Teachers Camp, Baguio City on September 29-October 1, 2023.

The delegates were: Paulyn Dumpit of Juan Sumulong High School, Hulian Kornacki of Andres Bonifacio Campus, Jacquelyn Lilly Guchone of Plaridel Campus, Lawrence Matthew Santiago of Jose Rizal Campus, Cristine Leigh Chan of Jose Abad Campus, Noel Alentajan Jr. of Apolinario Mabini Campus, Dean Sherwin Punla, and Karla Joan Magdael, Branch OSA Coordinator of Jose Rizal Campus, who stood as Adviser of the group.

The keynote speaker of the convention, Dr. Birgit Schreider gave a recorded message. She is the Africa Chair and Vice President of the International Association of Student Affairs and Services.

The first plenary session dealt on quality education. This was led by Ms. Nanette Repalpa, the Philippine National Representative from France Volontaires. She mentioned the interest of French volunteers to help Filipinos; she also discussed the process on how to be a volunteer in France.

The convention included the meeting with NGOs who shared their advocacies and ongoing projects aimed at achieving development goals. They also gave insights on economic and community development. Twelve NGOs were represented in the convention.

On the second day, Engineer Ludwig Federigon, a Climate Leader and Executive Director of the Young Environment Forum discussed critical topics like climate change, tropical storms and rising sea levels. He offered practical solutions to these problems like rainwater harvesting.

Ms. Angeli Bustilo, PhD, RGC discussed mental health in the digital age; she emphasized the role of spituality in attaining over-all well-being.

The evening of the second day ended with the Solidarity Night highlighted by the TRAC Got Talent Competition.

The third day of the convention centered on the giving of awards. Dean Sherwin Punla was one of the judges in the determination of the Top 20 Outstanding Student Leaders of the Philippines.