Gavin Rafael J Labial, a Bachelor in Early Childhood Education student from the School of Education of Xavier University, was selected to participate in the Southeast Asian Teacher Project (SEA Teacher) at Universitas Negeri Jakarta from 2 to 27 February 2025. This international teaching exchange program provides pre-service teachers with an immersive experience in diverse educational settings across Southeast Asia.

The SEA Teacher program, initiated by the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO), aims to enhance the teaching competencies of future educators by exposing them to different pedagogical approaches, classroom environments, and cultural perspectives. Through this initiative, participants gain firsthand experience in lesson planning in an international setting, classroom management, and cross-cultural communication, strengthening their skills in delivering quality education.

Gavin Rafael J Labial’s participation in this transformative program was collectively funded by the Office of International Cooperation and Networking (OICN) and the Xavier University Confederated Parents and Faculty Association (XUCPFA). Their generous support underscored a shared commitment to promoting global educational exchanges and equipping future educators with international competencies.

As Gavin embarked on this journey, he represented not only Xavier University but also the Philippines, showcasing the country’s dedication to advancing education through regional cooperation. His engagement in the SEA Teacher program reflected the university’s mission to produce globally competitive and culturally responsive educators.

Xavier University is proud of Gavin Rafael J Labial for the successful completion of the program. Additionally, two more Education students from Xavier University will embark on the same journey.  John Lord Emmanuel Lubguban (BSEd major in Science) and Jodie Jean Tumanda (4th year BSED) are set to commence their SEA Teacher program from 3 to 26 March 2025.