The official Newsletter of ASEACCU – The Association of Southeast and East Asian Catholic Colleges and Universities
Aseaccu Newsletter
January 2025
The Newsletter is published two times a year (Summer and Winter) by the Association of Southeast and East Asian Catholic College and Universities.
Dear friends and colleagues,
新年快樂 。Happy Lunar New Year.
Welcome to the Winter 2025 ASEACCU Newsletter, which simply gets better and better. Each newsletter carries more and more news of the fantastic things that are taking place across our region. I usually try to point in the direction of one or two stories that have caught my eye but, such are the riches of this newsletter, I find myself unable to cut my list of favourites down to a manageable size for this editorial. All I can suggest is that you settle down for a good long time and read the whole thing!
Just after Christmas, Pope Francis ceremonially opened the Holy Door at St Peter’s Basilica in Rome to mark the beginning of the Jubilee Year. These years are a time for an outpouring of graces on the whole Church, a time of mercy and, particularly this year, of hope. The Pope calls us to be pilgrims of hope. In the last week of October, he is inviting all Catholic Universities to journey in pilgrimage to Rome. I do hope you will be able to join me there. But a pilgrimage is not just some form of religious tourism. It is a journey undertaken for a spiritual purpose. That might be in thanksgiving for blessings received, or one undertaken in penance and the recognition of our need for mercy. This year, as we journey as pilgrims of hope, the Pope has asked universities and colleges to take part with the intention that we should become choreographers of hope for the world. It is an intriguing image and one I have spent many hours thinking and praying about throughout the Christmas Season. During our Mass to open the new semester at the University of Saint Joseph, I had an epiphany (appropriately because it was 6th January!) in which I could see that it was precisely the ability of Catholic colleges and universities to contribute to the societies in which they are situated, by holding out a vision of the human person grounded not in ambition or even naive optimism, but in our understanding that each one of us – every student, scholar, academic, administrator and support staff member in our communities – is made in the image and likeness of God who came as Man for our salvation. We are choreographers of hope because we can base our hope on more than material success but in the sure promise of God who comes to us that we may have life and have it in all its fullness. What is more, we can model that hope to the places we serve with a confidence that it is the way to true and lasting human happiness. So, that is my prayer for my University and for all our ASEACCU member institutions in this Jubilee Year.
One final note: this newsletter carries details of the Annual Conference at Providence University in Taichung, Taiwan this coming August. Please start to plan now to come and to bring as many members of your community with you. It will, I am sure, be a fantastic conference and one filled with hope.
祝大家龍馬精神。Wishing for a year full of health and vitality.
The Rev’d Professor Stephen Morgan, Rector
University of Saint Joseph Macao ASEACCU Executive Secretary
ASEACCU Activities & Events
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USJ Vice-rector for Student Life Dr. Teresa Loong and Chair of the ASEACCU Steering Committee led a courtesy visit to the upcoming 31stASEACCU Annual Conference Host Institution, Providence University, in Taichung, Taiwan. The ASEACCU Secretariat delegation was warmly received by Dr. Lucia Lin, President at Providence University, Father An-Jen Yang, Chaplain and Director for Campus Ministry, Dr. Jing-Run Cheng, Secretary General, Dr. Philip Lin, Dean of International Affairs and representatives from the Office of International and Cross-Strait Affairs, University Secretariat and Campus Ministry.
On behalf of the ASEACCU Executive Secretary, Rev’d Prof. Stephen Morgan, Dr. Loong brings blessings for another successful Annual Conference, and delivers the commitment of USJ Macao to best support the Conference and co-create for delegates of member institutions, a meaningful event and unique cultural and academic exchange experience in Taiwan. In light of this year’s Conference theme, Pilgrims of Hope: Spiritual Development and Action of Gen Z, Dr. Lin also hopes that beyond honouring the traditions of the ASEACCU Annual gathering, we can turn to the younger generations’ perspectives and insight on the topic to make sense of our current circumstances and mission as Catholic higher education institutions.
The 31st ASEACCU Annual Conference will be held from 18th to 21st August, 2025 in Taichung city, inviting students, faculty, staff and friends of the ASEACCU community to assemble in this significant event. Registrations and program details will be released in March.
[Delegation of the ASEACCU Secretariat tours the scenic Providence University campus grounds, including its student service units, auditoriums, library, and Our Lady of Providence Chapel]
Three students from Soegijapranata Catholic University, Semarang– Raveena Alifiya Sahara from the 2021 Communication Studies program, Florencia Angela Santoso from the 2021 Psychology program, and Kevin Hartono from the 2022 English Preneurship program— recently completed a 25-day teaching internship at the USLS-IS (Integrated School), a school managed by the University of Saint La Salle (USLS), Bacolod, Philippines. The internship took place from August 12 to September 5, 2024, as part of a collaboration between the Faculty of Language and Arts at Soegijapranata Catholic University and the College of Education at USLS, which began in 2022.
During the program, the three students engaged in various educational and cultural activities. They assisted teachers in classrooms, graded student assignments, and conducted live teaching sessions in front of students. Additionally, they participated in supporting activities such as a campus tour of La Salle, class observations in the Communication, English Science, and Psychology departments, and explorations of tourist destinations in Bacolod.
Raveena, known as Veena, shared that this teaching internship was a valuable experience for her. “We learned to adapt and become good teachers while understanding Filipino culture and exploring its attractions,” she said. The international experience also connected them with students from various countries who were studying at USLS Bacolod. Flo, a Psychology student, expressed her memorable impression of her international friends. “I made friends with students from the Philippines, France, Japan, China, Korea, Vietnam, Taiwan, and Bangladesh. They were very open and friendly, making it fun to hang out and explore together,” she shared.
When asked about their motivations for participating in the teaching internship, all three students expressed their desire to gain experience and expand their international networks. For Flo, this experience was important because it provided a chance to study in an international environment. Meanwhile, Kevin, an English Preneurship student, added that this program could also be used to fulfill his internship and course requirements in his faculty.
Despite the benefits, they also faced challenges, especially when conducting teaching demonstrations in large classrooms with up to 45 students. Nervousness was the main obstacle, particularly as they were directly assessed by the class teacher. Nevertheless, Veena, Flo, and Kevin agreed that the experience was highly rewarding, and they recommended the program to SCU students seeking to gain international experience and build global connections. The experiences of these three students not only enriched their academic knowledge but also broadened their understanding of different cultures and helped them establish cross-national relationships.
Three world-class Filipino cultural shows were recently held at the University of St. La Salle (USLS), drawing enthusiastic attendance from Lasallians and the local community to support projects of USLS and St. Joseph School-La Salle (SJS-LS).
These top-tier performances included the Manila Symphony Orchestra on Sep 17-18, the Philippine Ballet Theatre’s Ibalon on Sep 24-26, and Alice Reyes Dance Philippines’ Rama Hari on Oct 11-12, all staged at the St. La Salle Coliseum.
Proceeds from the cultural shows will benefit the Gallaga Theatre Renovations at USLS, enhancing a venue dedicated to student performances; the USLS Biodiversity Center, supporting ecological research and conservation; and the Faculty and Staff Development Fund of SJS-LS, which ensures resources for the ongoing excellence of educators. Support was also provided to orphanages, youth centers, and underprivileged organizations in Negros Occidental, which allowed these beneficiaries to attend and experience these remarkable performances.
These cultural shows not only raised funds but also showcased the University's support for and emphasis on Filipino arts and culture for everyone to appreciate.
Seven education students from two prominent Southeast Asian universities have joined De La Salle University-Dasmariñas (DLSU-D) as part of a student exchange program under the College of Education.
The group consists of five students from Udon Thani Rajabhat University, Thailand, and two students from Universitas Islam Indonesia (UII). Their participation is part of the Southeast Asia Teacher (SEA-Teacher) Program, a collaborative initiative that provides education students with international teaching internship opportunities.
Throughout the exchange, these future educators will engage in classroom observation, assist with teaching, and immerse themselves in the local culture to enhance their skills and cross-cultural competence. The SEA-Teacher Program aims to develop globally minded educators by fostering academic exchange and mutual learning among Southeast Asian countries.
The students’ stay will also involve various cultural activities, allowing them to experience Filipino traditions and education practices. “We are excited to welcome these students and provide them with a meaningful learning experience,” said Dr. Nor Cachuela, the University’s Linkages and Scholarship Office Director.
This exchange reflects the growing commitment of educational institutions in Southeast Asia to promote regional cooperation and professional development, equipping future teachers with the skills and experiences they need in an interconnected world.
Xavier Learning Community (XLC) conducts Ignatian Youth Camp (IYC) with the theme “Journeying Together” from October 21-25, 2024, at its campus in Chiang Rai, Thailand. Eighty-one freshmen and sophomore students came together for an unforgettable five-day experience filled with faith, community, and a shared journey of self-discovery.
This year’s camp divided participants into three houses—Ignatius, Xavier, and Favre—named after key figures in Jesuit history. Inspired by the Magis Program, the youth initiative of the Society of Jesus, the program aimed to deepen participants' understanding of the Jesuit mission. Through prayer, reflection, and the sacraments, the camp offered a chance to celebrate Ignatian Spirituality. The camp hoped that this experience will inspire and empower the students to faithfully and generously serve the Lord in their own unique context.
Throughout the camp, students engaged in a variety of activities designed to strengthen teamwork and communication while building a supportive sense of companionship. Each house participated in games and challenges that helped them develop resilience, patience, and the ability to work together toward common goals. Alongside these activities, students learned about the lives and work of St. Ignatius of Loyola, St. Francis Xavier, and St. Peter Favre, figures whose lives embodied Jesuit values. These historical insights gave students an understanding of Jesuit principles, including discernment, humility, and solidarity, and how these could be practiced in their daily lives.
A key part of this year’s camp was the Jamming with the Jesuits where students had the opportunity to hear from Jesuits currently serving at Xavier Learning Community, each at a different stage of their own vocational journey. Their stories illustrated the variety within Jesuit
vocations, showing students that there are many ways to live a life of purpose and service. Students also had the chance to present their house coat of arms, each group explaining the unique symbols and values behind their designs. This was followed by creative skits performed by each house, showcasing the Jesuit values they had learned through short plays. A Magis Circle was then done, where students gathered to share insights from their time working as a team and reflect on how these experiences had helped them grow.
As the camp progressed, students embarked on a pilgrimage, inspired by the Ignatian practice of finding God in all things. The full-day journey encouraged them to focus on the journey itself rather than the destination, mirroring St. Ignatius’ call to deepen one’s relationship with God through experiences of the heart and mind. Along the pilgrimage path, students paused for reflection and silence, practicing mindfulness and learning to recognize God’s presence in every step. This journey brought participants closer together and encouraged them to appreciate the present moment, opening their hearts and minds to God’s guidance along the way.
The camp concluded with a vibrant cultural celebration and awards night titled Ignite the Night. The evening brought all participants together in a joyful showcase of their unique cultural backgrounds (Thailand, Myanmar, Laos), talents, and accomplishments from the past five days. Each house celebrated their experiences with performances and presentations, receiving awards that highlighted their contributions and growth over the camp.
The XLC Ignatian Youth Camp 2024 was more than just an event; it was a journey of growth, friendship, and faith. Each student carried with them memories of shared experiences, deeper spiritual insights, and a renewed commitment to live the Jesuit values in their own lives, inspired to find God in all things and to serve others with generous hearts and open minds. Fr. Jboy Gonzales and T. Paul Loquias from Ateneo de Davao University, Philippines, were among the main facilitators for the camp. This is the first-ever Ignatian Youth Camp held outside the Philippines.
On October 17, 2024 Soegijapranata Catholic University (SCU) held a talk show entitled “Humanity and Culture: Leadership of Prof. Dr. M. Sastrapratedja, SJ at Soegijapranata Catholic University,” to commemorate and reflect on the legacy of its former rector, Prof. Dr. M. Sastrapratedja, SJ. It is a part of a series of activities organized by SCU and other universities led by Prof. Sastrapratedja, namely Sanata Dharma University Yogyakarta and Driyarkara Jakarta College of Philosophy (STF).
Previously at the end of September Sanata Dharma University had held a similar activity highlighting the educational concept of Prof. Sastrapratedja. The peak of the series was hosted by STF Driyarkara on October 22, 2024, attended by SCU Rector, Dr. Ferdinandus Hindiarto, Director and Screenwriter, Wregas Bhanuteja, and Former Rector of Sanata Dharma University, Y. Eka Priyatna, PhD who were also the speakers of this event.
“The big theme of the discussion in the three campuses is the same, about humanity and culture. However, at SCU itself we focus on the leadership perspective. The invited resource persons were colleagues who had experiences during his leadership,” explained SCU Deputy Rector for Innovation, Research and Publications, R. Setiawan Aji N., Ph.D. The Chairman of the Talk Show, Patrick Danardono, MH said that the article about Prof. Sastrapratedja will also be published on this occasion. “Not just remembering, but how we can understand, continue, and develop the values he formed,” he concluded.
Even though he led 3 universities almost at the same time, Prof. Sastrapratedja succeeded in bringing rapid development to each university. CU itself experienced the leadership of Prof. Sastrapratedja for 2 periods, namely 1989-1993 and 2004-2005. He was one of the figures who helped prepare the Semarang Catholic Institute of Technology (ITKS) to become Unika Soegijapranata. During his leadership, academic development was encouraged through preparation for lecturers' further studies, collaboration with foreign universities, and fighting for the status of study programs. He encouraged lecturers to take part in the Application Approach (AA) program organized by the Association of Catholic Universities (APTIK). He also required his students to improve their English language skills with the students from Georgetown University USA through English Language Training International (ELTI). Various scholarship programs were also established, including the ones from MSR-KWI, Supersemar Foundation, PT Djarum Kudus, and Sandjojo Foundation.
The original article has been edited for the ASEACCU newsletter.
USJ Vice-rector for Student Life Dr. Teresa Loong and Chair of the ASEACCU Steering Committee led a courtesy visit to the upcoming 31stASEACCU Annual Conference Host Institution, Providence University, in Taichung, Taiwan. The ASEACCU Secretariat delegation was warmly received by Dr. Lucia Lin, President at Providence University, Father An-Jen Yang, Chaplain and Director for Campus Ministry, Dr. Jing-Run Cheng, Secretary General, Dr. Philip Lin, Dean of International Affairs and representatives from the Office of International and Cross-Strait Affairs, University Secretariat and Campus Ministry.
On behalf of the ASEACCU Executive Secretary, Rev’d Prof. Stephen Morgan, Dr. Loong brings blessings for another successful Annual Conference, and delivers the commitment of USJ Macao to best support the Conference and co-create for delegates of member institutions, a meaningful event and unique cultural and academic exchange experience in Taiwan. In light of this year’s Conference theme, Pilgrims of Hope: Spiritual Development and Action of Gen Z, Dr. Lin also hopes that beyond honouring the traditions of the ASEACCU Annual gathering, we can turn to the younger generations’ perspectives and insight on the topic to make sense of our current circumstances and mission as Catholic higher education institutions.
The 31st ASEACCU Annual Conference will be held from 18th to 21st August, 2025 in Taichung city, inviting students, faculty, staff and friends of the ASEACCU community to assemble in this significant event. Registrations and program details will be released in March.
[Delegation of the ASEACCU Secretariat tours the scenic Providence University campus grounds, including its student service units, auditoriums, library, and Our Lady of Providence Chapel]