NDMU CEAC Students Gain Global Exposure through International Educational Trip 2026 in Thailand

The Notre Dame of Marbel University through its College of Engineering, Architecture, and Computing successfully conducted the International Educational Trip 2026 in Thailand from April 27 to May 3, 2026, providing students with meaningful international exposure, academic enrichment, and professional learning opportunities.

The seven-day educational tour brought together students and faculty from the Engineering and Computing programs in a carefully planned academic journey that combined institutional visits, industry exposure, cultural immersion, and experiential learning. Designed to strengthen classroom instruction through real-world applications, the tour allowed students to observe global practices in engineering, technology, architecture, infrastructure, and urban development. 

The delegation departed from General Santos City on April 27 and arrived in Bangkok, Thailand, proceeding to Pattaya for the first phase of the educational activities. On the second day, students visited the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency, Thailand’s national agency for geospatial technology, satellite imagery, and space research. The visit introduced participants to contemporary developments in geographic information systems, remote sensing, and the use of satellite-based technologies in national planning and environmental monitoring. 

Beyond academic exposure, the participants also explored the cultural and architectural heritage of Thailand through visits to the Nong Nooch Tropical Garden and the Sanctuary of Truth. These visits provided opportunities to appreciate the relationship between design, culture, craftsmanship, and sustainable tourism. The students also experienced the dynamic urban environment of Terminal 21 Pattaya, where contemporary architecture and commercial planning were observed firsthand. 

On April 29, the group traveled back to Bangkok and visited King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi. The university visit offered students valuable insights into academic innovation, engineering education, and research culture in an international setting. The delegation also proceeded to the Metropolitan Waterworks Authority Mahasawat Branch, where participants gained practical understanding of water supply systems, public utility operations, and sustainable urban water management.

The fourth day of the educational tour focused on media, telecommunications, transportation, and urban design. Students visited the Office of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission, observed operations at Bangkok Train Station, and explored an award-winning international convention center in Thailand. These activities broadened students’ perspectives on communication infrastructure, public transport systems, and contemporary architectural design. The day concluded with a cultural immersion through local cuisine and exposure to Bangkok’s night market environment. 

On May 1, participants visited Wat Ratchanatdaram and Nextopia World, followed by a city tour around Bangkok. Students also observed the intricate architectural detailing of the Grand Palace, one of Thailand’s most iconic cultural landmarks. Another visit to ICONSIAM further highlighted world-class architectural design, urban commercial development, and public space planning. 

On the final full day of the tour, the delegation visited the Bank of Thailand Learning Center, where students learned about the institution’s innovative learning environment, adaptive architecture, and sustainability-oriented design. The group also toured Tanland- Ichitan Green Factory, allowing participants to observe industrial processes, production systems, and operational management within a manufacturing setting. 

The educational tour concluded on May 3 with the safe return of the delegation to General Santos City and back to Koronadal City. More than a travel experience, the International Educational Tour 2026 served as an important platform for global learning, professional growth, and intercultural understanding. Through direct exposure to international institutions, modern infrastructure, and innovative technologies, CEAC students gained broader perspectives that will help prepare them for future leadership and practice in their respective professions. 

Engr. Rolly S. Tambe, MSCE, Acting Dean of the College of Engineering, Architecture, and Computing, emphasized that the international educational tour reflects the college’s continuing commitment to producing globally aware, academically competent, and industry-ready graduates capable of responding to the demands of an increasingly interconnected world.