Leyte Normal University (LNU) continues to expand its horizons through international engagement, exploring community-rooted approaches in Thailand that can enhance its extension programs.

Through its engagement with the Community Organizations Development Institute (CODI), LNU is looking into adaptable models that strengthen people-centered development, including:

• Bottom-up, participatory approaches—doing things with communities

• Area-based development strategies tailored to local contexts

• People-driven processes that empower local organizations

• Leveraging finance as a development tool at the organizational level

• Establishing mechanisms such as a Community Welfare Fund

The activity, organized by the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) in Thailand, was attended by Dr. Jonas P. Villas and Atty. Divina Patty Sibay, together with fellow members of the EVCIEERD Consortium.

This engagement also opens opportunities for faculty and student exposure to international community development practices, enriching learning, research, and extension work.

By learning from Thailand’s community-driven development practices, LNU aims to integrate innovative, inclusive, and sustainable strategies into its extension programs back home.

Photo Credits: Jonas P. Villas

Published by: Rico Combinido | IT Support Office