Duck herder turned Educator: A Filipino's journey to becoming a University Professor in Australia

SBS Australia

04-08-2025

Dennis Alonzo is an Associate Professor of Assessment, Curriculum, and Teacher Education at the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia.
He hails from South Cotabato and was a proud scholar of MSU-IIT in Iligan City and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in the Philippines during his college years.
He also led the establishment of the Asia Pacific Assessment and Curriculum Studies—an initiative aimed at improving teaching methods, assessment practices, and advancing inclusive learning across schools and universities in the Asia-Pacific region.
LISTEN TO THE PODCAST
SBS Filipino
14:09 Filipino
Dennis Alonzo is a respected Associate Professor of Assessment, Curriculum, and Teacher Education at the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia—a role that reflects his passion for learning and dedication to shaping future educators. Credit: Dennis Alonzo/FB
Once they finally settled in Australia, Dennis Alonzo took his mother on a trip to the popular tourist destination, the Sydney Opera House. Credit: Dennis Alonzo
According to Vivian Alonzo-Francisco, she and her sibling are deeply grateful for the unwavering dedication of their uncle, now UNSW Sydney Associate Professor Dennis Alonzo. His support not only helped them finish their studies—it changed the course of their lives. Credit: Vivian Alonzo-Francisco
UNSW Associate Professor Dennis Alonzo attended the college graduation of his niece, Vivian Francisco-Amada, in the Philippines. Credit Vivian Francisco-Amanda
Vivian Alonzo-Francisco's graduation. Credit: Supplied
UNSW Sydney Associate Professor Dennis Alonzo also helped some of his nieces and nephews finish their studies—among them, Janine Alonzo, now a teacher in Singapore, and her youngest sibling. His support opened doors and changed their future. Credit Vivian Alonzo-Francisco
Janine Alonzo's university graduation was a proud moment shared with her family in the Philippines and her uncle, now UNSW Sydney Associate Professor Dennis Alonzo—whose support helped turn dreams into reality. Credit: Vivian Alonzo-Francisco 📢 Where to Catch SBS Filipino 📲 Catch up episodes and stories – Visit sbs.com.au/filipino
or stream on Spotify , Apple Podcasts , Youtube Podcasts , and SBS Audio app.