The National Center for Transportation Studies (NCTS) hosted three (3) undergraduate engineering students from the University of Sydney (USYD) who have been selected to travel overseas and learn about engineering in specific contexts by undertaking local projects with partner organizations such as NCTS. The program is supported by the Australian Government’s New Colombo Plan, which aims to strengthen links between Australia and the Indo-Pacific Region. The students are studying Bachelor of Engineering Honours (Civil Engineering) and Bachelor of Design in Architecture.

On January 12, 2026, Ms. Maribelle Lobendino, NCTS Student Affairs Coordinator, conducted an orientation for the students. The students were provided with a brief background about the NCTS and its activities. They were also introduced to the different specialized groups and staff of the Center.

The undertaking was done from January 12-26, 2026, fulfilling the full 6-credit point course of study, equivalent to a full-time work week of 37.5 hours, plus completion of assessments. A courtesy call with Dr. Jun T. Castro, NCTS Director, was held on the same day to formally welcome the students.

The program is a 28-day program, based in Manila, with an initial three-day orientation that includes language, culture, and key international development contexts (e.g., the Sustainable Development Goals).

Students worked in NCTS as their local partner organization on predesigned project briefs, aligned with both their skill level and the needs of the partner organization. Each student completed approximately 100 hours on the projects during the program. NCTS will receive a final report that the students submit as one of their assignment tasks.