MARIANO Marcos State University (MMSU) Laboratory High School (LHS) established a collaboration with Takamatsu Commercial High School (TCHS) in Japan aimed at enhancing students' English language proficiency and promoting cultural understanding. TCHS, renowned for its English education, joined hands with MMSU LHS Laoag for an interactive English communication exchange conducted via Zoom.

During a virtual gathering, 62 Grade 12 senior high school students from MMSU Laboratory High School and Takamatsu Commercial High School engaged in an enlightening exchange of cultural perspectives. Discussions ranged from cuisine and tourist attractions to school life activities in their respective countries. The session was expertly overseen by Prof. Jeanette Dials, who heads international faculty and student mobility initiatives at MMSU.

MMSU College of Teacher Education alumnus Jim Christzer Pablo, now an English instructor at TCHS, proposed the activity to expose his students to other nationalities and cultures, aligning it with MMSU's "The World Classroom" initiative.

According to Klien Zyrus De Jesus, an adviser in Grade 12 Science, technology, engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), the initiative cultivated international friendships, bolstered critical thinking abilities and promoted a spirit of open-mindedness among participating students. "I hope there will be more communicative exchanges in the future, as they offer our learners an authentic way to interact with students from other countries", De Jesus said.

Grade 12 STEM student Paul Crisologo described the communicative exchange as a profoundly enriching experience. He highlighted that interacting with students from Takamatsu Commercial High School (TCHS) provided valuable insights into Japanese culture, enhancing their understanding and appreciation. "Although the time was limited and there were some language confusions, everyone enjoyed and did their best to communicate effectively", he added. MMSU announced that TCHS is planning an activity with the students of MMSU LHS in Batac later this year.