The Institute of Formation Fondacio Asia (IFFAsia) and the Loyola School of Theology (LST) have renewed their Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the Joint Diploma in Integral Leadership and Community Development (DIL) Program, reaffirming their shared commitment to forming lay leaders who can serve the Church and contribute to the development of communities across Asia.
The renewed partnership brings together IFFAsia’s formation experience and LST’s theological education to prepare young people for leadership and service. Representing IFFAsia was its Formation Team, headed by Florence Alexius, IFFAsia Director, while LST was represented by its president, Fr. Renato Repole, SJ.
More than the renewal of an institutional agreement, the partnership reflects a continuing commitment to accompany aspiring leaders as they deepen their faith, develop their leadership capacities, and respond to the needs of their communities.
Forming Leaders for Church and Society
The Diploma in Integral Leadership and Community Development is a non-degree program IFFAsia offers to young individuals aged 23 to 38. Through holistic human and Christian formation, it provides an alternative path for those preparing to serve in local churches and civil society.
The program combines human development, faith formation, leadership development, and community engagement. Its curriculum is organized into two major learning phases. From January to May, participants undertake Human Development and Leadership, covering the psychosocial approach to human development, faith formation, social analysis tools for community development, and new ecclesiology in pastoral ministry.
From June to November, the Social-Pastoral Leadership Development phase explores leadership and development, contemporary social issues and development theories, Catholic social teachings, and pastoral ministry and social development. These areas of study aim to develop participants’ leadership and decision-making skills, deepen their sense of purpose, and strengthen their capacity for critical thinking on social issues.
The program also includes a two-year post-program internship, during which graduates implement a Development Action Plan with accompaniment from IFFAsia and their respective sending organizations.
A Formation Journey Rooted in Faith and Service
Beyond academic learning, the DIL Program provides opportunities for collaborative and diverse learning, community engagement, and personal and professional development. It seeks to equip participants with the skills, values, and mindset to become agents of change in society and the Asian Church.
Through the renewed collaboration, IFFAsia and LST continue to encourage young lay leaders to connect their formation with the realities of the communities they serve. The program emphasizes leadership not only as a responsibility or position, but also as a commitment to service, participation, and meaningful contribution to the Church and society.
Applications for the January 2027 intake are now open. Scholarships are available for eligible applicants.
Young individuals aged 23 to 38 who are motivated to learn, lead, and serve are invited to explore the Diploma in Integral Leadership and Community Development Program.
For inquiries and applications, contact IFFAsia at [email protected] or +63 2 8967 9434. More information is also available at fondacio-asia.org/iffasia.