‘Mangingisda Ako, Una ang Seguridad Ko’ Workshop Empowers Banate Bay Fisherfolk
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Dr. Lydia Villanueva-Araneta, a guidance counselor at the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), recently delivered three separate talks addressing critical mental health issues, reinforcing the university’s commitment to community engagement, particularly in fostering psychological wellness among the youth.
Her most recent speaking engagement took place at St. Paul School, Barotac Nuevo, on September 13, 2024, where she was invited as the guest speaker during a symposium on Mental Health and Overall Well-being. The event was sponsored by SPSBN Batch 1984 in celebration of their 40th year since high school graduation. During the talk, Dr. Villanueva-Araneta discussed mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and suicide, underscoring the importance of raising awareness on these issues within the school setting. She expressed her gratitude for the warm response from the students, stating, “My heart is full with so much gratitude and joy. You all inspire me to continue doing what I love to do—raising awareness and reaching out to those in need.”
In a significant step toward promoting mental wellness and suicide prevention, the DepEd Schools Division Office (SDO) of Passi City partnered with the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) to conduct a Suicide Prevention Seminar-Workshop. Held yesterday, September 12, 2024, at the Nine Suite Business Hotel in Passi City, the seminar was part of the Katatagan Program, which champions mental health advocacy across the city’s schools. The initiative is aligned with ISUFST’s commitment to community involvement and regional development, while supporting the mental health thrust of Cong. Ferjenil Biron, a member of the university’s Board of Regents.
Participants, including elementary and high school heads, curriculum personnel, and operations staff, actively engaged in identifying warning signs of suicidal behavior and practiced crisis intervention approaches through case scenarios and role-playing exercises. The highlight of the event are the mini workshops and the lively sharing of insights in the plenary facilitated in by the resource speaker.
San Enrique, Iloilo–A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed on the morning of Thursday, August 22, 2024, at the Municipal Hall of San Enrique. This marks a significant collaboration between the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) and the Liga ng Mga Barangay of San Enrique town. The partnership is set to drive the TechKnow Transfer Extension Program, a pioneering initiative aimed at enhancing the technological capabilities of the town’s barangay officials.
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.
Another First, Historic Collaboration for Innovation and Research:
On August 15, 2024, a significant milestone was achieved with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Iloilo Provincial Government and Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST). The MOA establishes a Research Development and Innovations Partnership and initiates a groundbreaking research project on the induced spawning of African catfish using alternative sources of pituitary glands. Dr. Roy C. Villanueva leads the project, with research specialist Mr. Eli Gene Tisuela supporting the initiative. The signing ceremony, held at Casa Real’s Function Room A, saw Iloilo Provincial Administrator Dr. Raul Bañas representing the provincial government and University President Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr. representing ISUFST. This partnership marks a new chapter in fostering research and innovation in Iloilo. (Text and photos by Jescel Boglosa BitoOnon/PAMMCO)