On September 17, 2024 a Welcome Ceremony was held in Arellano University (AU) Legarda Campus to honor Mr. Graemae Severinsen and Dr. Robina Merry, who are officials of Te Rito Maioha New Zealand. In attendance in the affair were officials of AU, faculty, and staff of the College of Education.
The ceremony set a positive tone for the visit, emphasizing collaborations and shared goals. It highlighted the importance of international partnerships in education and cultural exchange.
The following day, the visitors held an informative session with the Education students and AU personnel, discussing study and career opportunities in New Zealand.
On their last two days the visitors had a cultural tour of Intramuros, giving them a peek into the rich history of the Philippines with the visit of Fort Santiago, St. Agustin Church and museum, and Casa Manila. The group had lunch in Binondo, allowing them to experience local flavors and Filipino hospitality.
They appreciated the local crafts and souvenirs at Kultura, and in the National Museum, a diverse array of exhibits showcasing Filipino art and history.
In the farewell dinner which was attended by Chairman and CEO Francisco P.V. Cayco and other AU officials, on their last evening in the country, reflections on the visit and plans about future collaborations were the main issues of discussion.
The New Zealand delegates expressed their gratitude for the warm hospitality they received, and their eagerness to continue building strong ties with Arellano University.
Te Rito Maioha is an educational institution in New Zealand, specializing in early childhood teacher education, offering a range of diploma, degree and postgraduate programs.
On March 17-23, 2024, at the invitation of Ms. Kathy Wolfe, Chief Executive of the Te Rito Maioha Early Education New Zealand, a delegation of AU officials, headed by Chairman and CEO of AU Francisco P.V. Cayco, visited the New Zealand institution which is located in Wellington, New Zealand.
The signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation and Understanding between the two educational institutions was the most important output of this visit.
– Philip Flores
