COED's Assoc. Prof. Hajan Joins Global Scholars in Translinguistics Research at Penn State, USA

Assoc. Prof. Bonjovi H. Hajan, of the College of Education, has been selected as one of the 31 global scholars for the Summer Research and Publishing Institute on Translinguistics, scheduled to be held at Pennsylvania State University, USA, from May 12-16, 2025. His acceptance into this highly selective program highlights his dedication to advancing language studies, particularly in the areas of English teaching and linguistic diversity.

During the program, Assoc. Prof. Hajan will be mentored by Prof. Suresh Canagarajah, a leading expert in World Englishes, Applied Linguistics, and Asian Studies. Prof. Canagarajah, known for his groundbreaking research on translanguaging, translingualism, and linguistic imperialism, will provide invaluable guidance to scholars in shaping their research contributions. This mentorship offers an exceptional opportunity for Prof. Hajan to engage with cutting-edge discussions on language dynamics in global contexts.

Expressing his deep commitment to the study of language education, Assoc. Prof. Hajan remarked:

"Whose language do we teach, how do we teach it, for whom, and to what end? These aren’t just some academic questions. These questions are lived realities for multilingual communities like ours in Tawi-Tawi. As a language education scholar, I see this opportunity not just as an honor but as a responsibility. I’m bringing with me the stories of my students, my colleagues, and my institution to a global stage. I can’t wait to learn from Prof. Canagarajah and fellow scholars in this prestigious event. Thanks to our Chancellor, Prof. Mary Joyce Z. Guinto-Sali, PhD, for her support. I’m really looking forward to coming home full of insights that can help us champion critical language education in our communities."

With this achievement, Assoc. Prof. Hajan joins a distinguished group of scholars pushing the boundaries of translinguistics research. His participation in the program reflects his commitment to expanding knowledge in applied linguistics, fostering innovative approaches to language teaching, and contributing to the evolving discourse on multilingualism worldwide.

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