As part of its ongoing internationalization initiative, Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) has sent a delegation of 14 faculty members and students to participate in a week-long immersion program at the University of Brawijaya (UB) in Indonesia. The program, which commenced on August 18 and will conclude on August 24, 2024, aims to enhance the global competencies of the participants, exposing them to international academic standards and cultural practices.
The delegation comprises seven faculty members and nine students from different departments of ISUFST. Four faculty members from the College of Information and Communications Technology (CICT)—Dr. Benjamin Cornelio, Jr., Dr. Noel Caliston, Dr. Renante Diamante, and Instr. Alex Facelo, Jr.—are joined by four Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) students: Nikki Muriel Buensuceso, Vincent Pabilona, Nazarrio Benjamin Sobida, Claine Reniva, and Kent Bryan Belandres. Simultaneously, faculty members from the College of Agriculture (COA)—Instructor Rodelyn Caro and Instr. Jiesel Cantorna—and Dr. Jeanette Bayona of the Office of International Affairs and Linkages are leading three Bachelor of Science in Agriculture students: Kylah Peralta and Faith Benadero.
Each group is engaged in a distinct set of activities tailored to their academic disciplines. The CICT faculty and students are focused on workshops, lectures, and research collaborations that explore the latest developments in information technology. These sessions are designed to provide insights into emerging technologies and innovative practices, which participants can bring back to ISUFST to enhance the university’s ICT programs.
Meanwhile, the COA participants are deeply involved in agricultural studies, attending lectures, participating in field visits, and collaborating on research projects that address regional agricultural challenges and innovations. This immersion offers a unique opportunity for faculty and students to learn about advanced agricultural techniques and practices that can be applied to enhance productivity and sustainability in the Philippines.
Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr., President of ISUFST, expressed his support for this international initiative, stating, “This immersion program is a crucial step in our commitment to align ISUFST with global standards. I encourage our faculty and students to maximize this experience, absorb as much knowledge as possible, and share these valuable insights with the ISUFST community upon their return.”
The immersion program not only strengthens ISUFST’s partnerships with international institutions like the University of Brawijaya but also contributes to the university’s mission of producing globally competitive graduates. The faculty and students involved are expected to return to the Philippines on August 24, 2024, equipped with new knowledge and experiences that will benefit both their personal development and the broader academic community at ISUFST. (Text by Herman Lagon and Julius Ruger Hermano/Photos by Jeanette Bayona/PAMMCO)
