JICA volunteer boosts ICT instruction in the Philippines

After two years of dedicated work as a Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) volunteer, under the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV) Program, SEKIGUCHI Takuya has made significant contributions in the field of teaching computer programming and coding at a state university in Rosario, Cavite.

The Philippines faces challenges in computer science and information and communication technology education, including limited technological access, resources, and opportunities for teacher training. This underscores the importance of SEKIGUCHI’s contribution to the Cavite State University - Cavite College of Arts and Trades (CvSU-CCAT) Campus.

SEKIGUCHI used his extensive experience in Japan to collaborate with CvSU-CCAT’s Department of Computer Studies to enhance and update ICT teaching materials and methodologies by introducing programming tools such as ‘Scratch’, ‘micro:bit’, and ‘micro:Maqueen’. ‘Scratch’ is a free and user-friendly programming language that enables students to understand the coding fundamentals and explore creativity even without prior knowledge, while ‘micro:bit’ and ‘micro:Maqueen’, a globally-used tool, promote student engagement, hands-on human-machine interaction, and critical thinking skills. SEKIGUCHI conducted trainings and workshops on these tools among faculty and students from CvSU-CCAT and Naic campuses and Tejeros Convention Elementary School in Rosario, Cavite. He also mentored students on ICT-related research work.

Aside from his academic responsibilities, SEKIGUCHI actively engaged with the community through various activities, including offering Japanese language lessons and participating in conferences and school events joyfully, which promotes a deeper understanding between the Philippines and Japan.

These successful accomplishments were the result of the effective cooperation between CvSU-CCAT and JOCV SEKIGUCHI which eventually earned the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA) Best Volunteer and Local Partner Institution Tandem Award.

JICA Philippines Chief Representative SAKAMOTO Takema emphasized that “Volunteerism can create impact through meaningful collaboration.” He added, “with the mutual understanding and respect between Mr. SEKIGUCHI and his local counterparts, they were able to contribute to elevating ICT instruction in their university, producing globally competitive future ICT professionals, and, more importantly, enhancing real heart-to-heart ties.”

“Mr. SEKIGUCHI's impact extends far beyond the classroom. His dedication and collaborative spirit have inspired both students and faculty, creating an environment of mutual learning and growth. He has not only shared his knowledge but also his culture, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of diversity among us,” said CvSU-CCAT Campus Administrator Dr. Larry Pascua.

The deployment of volunteers like SEKIGUCHI, as a core part of JICA’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) to the Philippines, demonstrates the essence of the JOCV program: sharing Japanese knowledge and experiences, while also engaging in communities to develop new perspectives that will contribute to the advancement of various sectors in the country, foster closer ties between the two nations, and share valuable insights with Japanese communities, enriching the society as a whole. Since 1966, JICA has deployed about 1,700 JOCVs to the Philippines.